Manny Pacquiao addresses rumor that he is set to leave his long-standing boxing coach, mentor and Hall of Fame trainer Freddie Roach.

The Filipino boxing legend was recently confirmed as having his next fight against Argentinian knockout artist Lucas Matthysse on July 15th in Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia.

However in recent days various reports have suggested that Pacquiao will do so without the help of Freddie Roach.

Since coming to the United States for his first pro fight back in 2001 in Las Vegas, Pacquiao and Roach have been side by side in a remarkable rise for both men as fighter and trainer.

World titles in eight different weight divisions, icon status for Pacquiao in his native country, a congressman job and worldwide acclaim has seen both men benefit from one another’s partnership.

Pacquiao has now spoken on the rumor that he and Roach are splitting before his next fight:

“Contrary to statements which I personally did not make that are circulating in the media, I have not made my final decision who will be my head trainer for my July 14 fight with Matthysse. My advisor Mike Koncz has been in contact with Freddie’s people to keep them informed. I will make a final decision within the week. When that decision is made, Freddie will be the first one to be informed and then I will advise the media.”

It is widely thought that 2018 will be the final time Manny Pacquiao steps into the pro boxing ring.

If this is his last or even penultimate fight, it would be rather odd for him to choose now to do so without his long time mentor.