Pacquiao vs. Bradley Predictions: Why Bradley Will Take Fight the Distance

Manny Pacquiao is in for a long night, meaning the fight will go 12 rounds. If he is to defeat Timothy Bradley on June 9 at MGM Grand Garden Arena, he better pack a lunch.

Bradley's chin is solid, and he's a good counter-puncher. He has only been dropped twice in his 28-fight career. Both instances came in the same fight, and one was more of a slip.

These two things will play a major role in Bradley's ability to not just survive, but to compete. He isn't a huge puncher, we all know that by now.

Even if you've never seen him fight, you've probably taken a look at his win-loss record. There you've seen that he has only 12 KOs in his career. I actually think the perceived lack of power works to Bradley's advantage.

He needs Pacquiao fighting in close with him. He doesn't have the speed or the reach to handle Pacquiao if Pac-Man darts in and out. He needs a bout that features grabbing, holding and in-fighting.

This is where Bradley does his best work. He has great core strength, thus he isn't easily moved when bodies clash. This is also where his opponents have been hit with the notorious Bradley headbutts. 

It's unclear whether these are intentional or not, but they have definitely become a factor for past Bradley opponents. A headbutt that opens a cut not only hurts, but it can send a fighter into a panic.

The victimized fighter doesn't want the fight to be stopped, and he doesn't want it to impair his vision—if it's over his eye. With Bradley bringing this history into his bouts, it makes fighting him a little intimidating.

Beyond what Bradley brings to the table, Pacquiao has struggled to finish opponents lately. He hasn't scored a KO in three years. The last time he stopped a fighter was in 2009 when he scored a TKO victory over Miguel Cotto.

I believe Pacquiao's skills have begun to erode and that this fight will present a huge obstacle for him. Whether it's a win or loss for Pacquiao, this fight is going the distance.

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