Winner and Why
Though I don’t think the fight will be a complete shutout, picking Floyd Mayweather is a no-brainer. Manny Pacquiao simply isn’t smarter than Mayweather. Mayweather has the highest boxing IQ (probably ever), and he has the experience, conditioning and skills to back it up.
I see him figuring Pacquiao out in the initial rounds, using his jab a lot to the head and body. Mayweather is going to recognize what Pacquiao is good at, including his best punches and “go-to” combinations,” and take that away from him. Mayweather should steer clear of the ropes; even if shots don’t hurt him, taking unnecessary punishment can slow him down.
There’s 45 people who could tell you that once Mayweather figures you out, it’s a wrap. Two of them needed rematches to confirm what they already knew. Pacquiao’s best bet is to try and outwork Mayweather. But If Pacquiao is looking to compete against Mayweather’s brain, he definitely has his work cut out for him.
