Ruslan Provodnikov, the "Siberian Rocky," made some waves with recent comments regarding Manny Pacquiao, with whom he shares trainer Freddie Roach. After weeks of saying he wouldn't face Pacman, Provodnikov has changed his tune.
"The chances are good that we will meet Pacquiao on April 12," said Provodnikov. "As you know, I originally did not want to fight with (Pacquiao), because we both trained under the guidance of Freddie Roach. Then, while I was on vacation at a resort, I carefully thought about the situation, and I decided that if fate is giving me the opportunity, then I need to use it."
"To refuse a fight with such a great boxer is stupid. I've always wanted to fight with the best, and Pacquiao is at the top of the ceiling."
Despite saying he's willing to step in the ring with Pacquiao, his main target remains Juan Manuel Marquez. In addition to not having to leave Roach for a fight, as Roach would be expected to keep training Pacquiao, Marquez's counter-punching style could make for fascinating boxing.
"The most preferred opponent for me is Juan Manuel Marquez," Provodnikov said. "I know that negotiations are being conducted with him. But if he refuses, then I have to fight with Pacquiao."
If a Ruslan vs. Manny fight is made, Provodnikov talked about what he would do in terms of training for the fight without Roach. "It will be necessary to look for a new coach, because if a fight with Manny takes place, then Freddie Roach, of course, will side with him."
Provodnikov expressed confidence that he could defeat Pacquiao, even without his trainer in his corner. I'm confident in myself," he said. "There is no doubt that I can have a real fight with him."
Marquez is still fully focused on securing a rematch with Timothy Bradley, feeling he was robbed when the two met for the first time. His trainer Angel Heredia recently admitted that a fight against Provodnikov is possible though.
"He mentioned Ruslan as an option to me," Heredia said. "But he doesn't want to fight in Vegas anymore. So it could be in Mexico, San Antonio, Texas, or Florida. Who knows."
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