Margarito Plans 150 Rounds of Sparring

MANILA, Philippines – Antonio Margarito will undergo at least 150 rounds of sparring to prime himself up for Filipino fireball Manny Pacquiao.

This was bared by Margarito’s chief trainer Robert Garcia, who has actually began whipping the Mexican into shape for the Nov. 13 duel with Pacquiao at Cowboys Stadium in Dallas.

Although training proper officially kicks off this Monday in Southern California, Garcia wants Margarito to start working out a sweat so they can immediately get going once they arrive in Oxnard, which is about 40 miles north of Los Angeles.

Garcia said Margarito will start sparring sometime late this month and the sessions will be every other day.

“A hundred fifty rounds will be perfect and Margarito, being a hardworker, can do that,” said Garcia, who will be working Margarito’s corner for only the second time.

Pacquiao, meanwhile, hit the road Thursday morning with training assistant Buboy Santiago in tow.

Pacquiao is trying to be in shape in time for the arrival of his trainer Freddie Roach on Sept. 19. They will then motor to Baguio the following day to begin training.

Nick Giongco, Manila Bulletin