Marquez insists he had no knowledge of his new strength and conditioning coach’s past. He also insists on letting the past be just that- the past.

Training is intensifying for both fighters. here are my observations:

Fine Tuning Pacquiao
The most glaring detail to for me was the last training session between Manny and Freddie Roach. Manny is making a concerned effort in planning for Marquez’ counterpunching techniques. Manny is adjusting his approach as to break his attack off, expecting a counter, slip, then slip his counter inside. This further confirms my notion that footwork and positioning will be the determining factor between winner and loser in this fight.

Measuring Marquez
As Juan Manuel Marquez’ works the pads, his punches are still very wide. This is a huge liability for Juan going into the fight- especially if Manny is patient. If Manny is patient, he’ll be able to see these punches coming. Juan’s best chance to land such wide hooks on Pacquiao is to feint him into softening his guard before volleying an attack.

Both Fighters Arrive in Vegas, Different turnouts
Marquez arrives to cameras, reporters and fanfare. But it’s no where near the frenzy that eagerly greets Pacquiao as he arrives. There’s no mistaking who is the biggest draw.

Angulo is shocked by Kirkland
Beristain’s aggressive pupil, Angulo loses to James Kirkland. Nacho Beristain is disgusted “El Perro” Angulo did not follow his instructions.

Both fighters are on the downward slope of training. Tapering off the intensity at this point is the objective. Victory is the prime directive.

What is necessary for either fighter to achieve victory? See the Pacquiao-Marquez Keys to victory and my prediction.