LOS ANGELES – Freddie Roach wasn’t around on Friday night to receive his latest Trainer of the Year award.
But he guaranteed to be on hand next year in New York City, implying he’s going to clinch an unprecedented eighth award this year from the Boxing Writers Association of America (BWAA).
By that, Roach meant a victory for Manny Pacquiao in his May 2 (May 3, Manila time) title showdown against Floyd Mayweather Jr.
“Manny assured me that I will win (number) eight next year because he’s knocking Mayweather out,” said Roach, drawing laughter from a handful of mediamen doing post-workout interviews at the Wild Card gym.
“Of course, that’s how it goes.”
The 55-year-old Roach was honored with a seventh Trainer of the Year award in a ceremony in New York, although it was his brother Allan who received the plaque on his behalf.
“I cannot, of course,” he said in explaining that Pacquiao’s training runs in conflict with the occasion.
The award is named after legendary trainer Eddie Futch, from whom Roach admitted learning the tricks of the business.
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