Freddie Roach is still optimistic that Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather will finally collide in a super showdown this year. But if the super fight will not materialize again, the Hall of Fame trainer already has possible opponent in mind for Pacquiao's next fight.
Roach said in an interview with BoxingScene that he wants Danny Garcia next for Pacquiao. Amir Khan is also being mentioned as a possible opponent for Pacquiao, but Roach insisted that Garcia is the better option.
The 54-year-old trainer said that Garcia is the more ideal opponent for Pacquiao because the 26-year-old loves to engage, which would give fans an action-packed showdown.
"I like Danny Garcia because he's a game guy, he comes to fight, he's a good puncher, he can knock you out with one punch, he's dangerous - I think that's a better fight," Roach said via BoxingScene. "Amir Khan is just fast and I think he would run from Manny a little bit too much and it would be boring."
Roach added in an interview with Tha Boxing Voice that Pacquiao will move down in weight this year. The only reason that they have not yet announce a decision to move back to the junior welterweight division is the possible fight against Mayweather, which needs to happen at 147 pounds.
Roach pointed out that Pacquiao is a better fighter at 140 points. However, he also admitted that there is a chance that the Pacquiao-Garcia showdown will not happen because of the reigning light welterweight champion is under influential boxing adviser Al Haymon, who is not in good terms with Top Rank Promotions CEO Bob Arum.
"I talked Danny Garcia for a while but that doesn't look like it's going to happen," Roach said. "Garcia is with Al Haymon and since Al and Bob Arum don't get along it makes for big fights not to happen. I like that fight because it's an exciting fight for the fans. Manny wants to fight guys that will put on a good show."
And if they do not get a shot against Garcia, Roach said that they will consider facing Terence Crawford. The veteran trainer said that it might be too early to face the rising junior welterweight, but the 27-year-old is a possible opponent for Pacquiao in the near future.
"Crawford's a good opponent," Roach said. "I think he needs a little more seasoning and a little more experience. I wouldn't put him in there so soon right now. But down the line he's going to be one of those guys for sure."
