Roach bring Jorge Linares as sparring partner in Baguio

MANILA, Philippines — Manny Pacquiao and Freddie Roach will turn up the heat in cold Baguio City as the dazzling duo reunited Tuesday for the start of the buildup for the fast-approaching Nov. 12 trilogy with Juan Manuel Marquez.

Arriving from Los Angeles early Tuesday, Roach hopped on a van that brought him to Baguio City, site of the first phase of Pacquiao’s training camp.

Roach brought along Venezuelan Jorge Linares, who will serve as Pacquiao’s sparring partner, as well as boxing agent Billy Keane, a close friend of the Hall of Fame trainer.

Knowing that Roach’s arrival means serious business, Pacquiao woke up early and tagged along his team to Burnham Park, where a large crowd watched him do his roadwork and light exercises.

Pacquiao arrived in the City of Pines from his home in Brentville in Laguna late Sunday night, determined to put closure on the never-ending debate about his rivalry with Marquez.

“This fight will put an end to all the questions,” said Pacquiao, who has been slighted by repeated claims that he was the recipient of favorable decisions in his two fights with Marquez.

The first Pacquiao vs Marquez fight happened in 2004, and the bout ended on a 12-round draw. The rematch took place in 2008 with Pacquiao declared winner via a split decision, a decision that Marquez said should have gone his way.

Hall of Fame promoter Bob Arum said those claims are unfounded.

“In 2004, I was promoting Marquez and Pacquiao was with another promoter,” said Arum, head of Top Rank, currently boxing’s premier promotional outfit.

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