Sources close to the information have informed us that world-class Strength & Conditioning coach Alex Ariza will be working with former lightweight champion Brandon Rios as he prepapres for his anticipated November 23 showdown with multi-division world champion Manny Pacquiao. The news may or may not come as a surprise to many considering that Ariza was recently let go from his position as Pacquiao's Strength & Conditioning coach, a move that Pacquiao's trainer, Freddie Roach, reportedly pushed for.
Instrumental in Pacquiao's rise through the weight divisions over the past 5 years, Ariza knows the Filipino sensation like the back of his hand. From his training regimen to his habits inside the ring, Ariza can reveal several key details about Pacquiao which could give Rios the type of edge he'll need when the two finally face off in November.
[ Follow Ben Thompson on Twitter @fighthype ]