For Manny Pacquiao, it doesn’t really matter who stands across from him on Saturday.
Pacquiao will take on Yordenis Ugas for the WBA welterweight title live on pay-per-view from Las Vegas. He was scheduled to meet Errol Spence, Jr., but an injury changed the fight.
An eight-division champion, Pacquiao is focused on just one thing this weekend.
“I am excited to win another world championship on Saturday. I don’t care who has the belt right now, we’ll see who walks out of the ring with it,” he said. “Being out of the ring has given me time to rest, but also to get motivated like in my early days. I can’t wait to display it all on fight night.
“Boxing is my passion. That’s why I’m still here giving inspiration to the boxing fans and bringing honor to my country. I’m happy doing my job and working hard. They have to try to slow me down in training, because I always want to go more rounds.”
A politician now, Pacquiao knows his days as a fighter are dwindling. However, he maintains a sense of balance.
“This could be my last fight, or there could be more. I’m turning 43 in December, and my plan has always been to just go one fight at a time. I encourage the fans all over the world to watch this fight, because you never know.”
As for his opponent, Ugas is ready to add a big name to his resume.
“I’m here to wreck any future plans Manny Pacquiao has in the ring and make sure that Saturday is his last fight,” Ugas said. “It feels great to be in the main event Saturday night against a true legend like Pacquiao. I can’t wait to get in the ring on Saturday night.”