Calzaghe Says The Pressure Is On Floyd

By Olly Campbell - 04/30/2015 - Comments

Once dominant British super middleweight Joe Calzaghe, who himself retired undefeated following his fight with Roy Jones Jr in 2008, has spoken to Sky Sports News this morning ahead of this Saturday’s Vegas mega-fight.

Calzaghe, whose unblemished record also included a marquee Las Vegas fight ( Vs Bernard Hopkins in 2008) ended his own spectacular career with a perfect 46-0 slate.

The Welshman, who has previously spoken about the burden of Floyd protecting his ‘0’ gave his opinion on proceedings following his return from the States where he was guest analyst on last weeks Dirrell – Jack PBC broadcast. He said;

“It’s a fight boxing needs. Two of the world’s best P4P finally fighting each other. For boxing fans it is a tremendous fight”

Asked if he got a feel while out Stateside that the American people were not fully behind their countryman, Joe said;

“I think it’s people just want the underdog to win. Manny Pacquiao is a very likeable person. I’m not saying Floyd isn’t but people want to see Floyd Mayweather under a lot of pressure and to see how he reacts when his back’s against the wall.”

“His last few defences have been pretty comfortable but when he boxed Maidana he didn’t look that great. However I think he’s going to raise his game, he’s the undefeated fighter.”

Of Pacquiao, Calzaghe conceded;

“Pacquiao has got a chance. If he can be the Manny Pacquiao of three or four years ago – fast combinations, using his southpaw skills – but he can’t be too careless as Mayweather is very good with that right hand and that left hook – which is a perfect punch to throw against a southpaw.”

Asked if he thought Mayweather, as the undefeated fighter is feeling more pressure, he said;

“Speaking personally there is a lot more pressure towards the end of your career to become one of those elite fighters and retire undefeated. So yes Mayweather is coming toward the end of his career and that is a lot of pressure ’cause he has got that zero”

“Pacquiao will be more relaxed and I’m sure he’s got one great fight left in him. Like I said there will pressure on both but as the undefeated fighter Mayweather will feel more pressure.”

“This is going to be a great fight, a great night and I just hope the fight lives up to expectations”

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