"Got the call to head back to LA tonight to meet with Manny tomorrow and go over training here in LA," stated world-class strength & conditioning coach Alex Ariza, who informed his followers on Twitter that he would be reuniting with 8-division world champion Manny Pacquiao on Saturday. Just two weeks ago, with Pacquiao permission, Ariza departed the Philippines and returned to the United States to begin working with WBC middleweight champion Julio Cesar Chavez Jr., who is preparing for a June 16 title defense against Andy Lee. It was a move that should have come as no surprise as Ariza had repeatedly stated his intentions in the weeks leading up to the news.
Many had assumed, however, that there was some type of turmoil within the Pacquiao camp which may have led to Ariza's early departure. Even Hall of Fame trainer Freddie Roach said Ariza's decision to leave was unprofessional, despite the fact that he received Pacquiao's permission to do so, and questioned whether or not his return to the camp would be needed. Nonetheless, Ariza maintained that his absence was only temporary and fully expected to continue working with the WBO welterweight champion upon his arrival to Wild Card. Apparently, Pacquiao was on the same page as Ariza, and the two will reunite when he makes his return to the United States Saturday evening.
It's unclear, however, if Ariza will resume working with former jr. welterweight champion Amir Khan, who also had been working with for 4 weeks in the Philippines prior to his departure.
[ Follow Ben Thompson on Twitter @fighthype ]