Freddie Roach: No Room for Error

Despite his HOF resume and all the accolades, Freddie Roach is unequivocal in belief that a win over Floyd Mayweather would be his biggest career accomplishment.

"It's the biggest challenge of my career, by far," the American said in Macau, where he is preparing China's Zou Shiming to challenge Thailand's Amnat Ruenroeng for the IBF flyweight championship at Cotai Arena on Saturday.

"Floyd's undefeated. He's talented, He's unique. Here's a guy I first saw when he was five years old in the gym. And he was a good fighter then," Roach said.

"I'm happy this fight is here. Yes, it's the biggest challenge of my life but I think it's going to be the greatest moment of my life also."

Freddie then quickly mentioned receiving a special phone call from Manny Pacquiao:

"I just talked to Manny," said Roach. "He wanted to call me. He sang 'Happy Birthday' and he had the whole gym singing to me!"

Manny really is a nice guy, and I mean this genuinely and in no slighting way, so it's no wonder he endears himself to so many people the world over. But as much as we all love Manny and his beautiful singing voice (this part is meant to be sarcastic), Roach quickly refocused to the task at hand.

"The strategy to win the fight is very complicated and very precise," said Roach. "Manny has to make the right moves at the right time to win the fight and this time there is no room for error."

"Mayweather is very good at moving and when he gets you to follow him he will walk you into shots, score points and win rounds."

This quote specifically reflects the notion I was referring to when saying in a previous article that it's a tall order to try and fight a 'perfect fight' against Mayweather. He's undoubtedly a master technician in the ring and forcing opponents into making mistakes is one of his best strengths. This is not to say, of course, that Mayweather is incapable of make the occasional mistake himself.

"But he does make mistakes here and there. Not a lot, but a couple and that's something a southpaw like Manny can take advantage of."

And that is what we're all waiting to see - whose style will ultimately prevail in a clash of the 'little' titans. All will be revealed on May 2nd...