MANILA, Philippines (AFP) — Underdog Manny Pacquiao said yersterday he has a simple tactic to beat American favourite Floyd Mayweather in history’s richest fight by two longtime rivals for the planet’s top “pound-for-pound” boxer crown.

“Use my left and right (fists),” the Filipino boxing hero told reporters when asked how he planned to deal with his undefeated foe’s height and reach advantage, as well as famed defensive skills.

“If I hurt him I expect him to run. Otherwise he might fight me toe-to-toe.”

The Philippines is in the throes of “Pacmania” as the 36-year-old, dubbed “The National Fist” by local media, is set to fly to the United States to train for the May 2 Las Vegas bout.

The 38-year-old Mayweather, tipped as the favourite by bookmakers after announcing the megabucks fight last weekend, has not lost any of his 47 fights, in which he has scored 26 knockouts.

Pacquiao has 57 victories and five defeats to his name, including two suffered as recently as 2012. He has two draws and 38 knockouts.

But he exuded confidence yesterday as he gave out free pizzas to supporters while preparing for his third game as a basketball player in the Philippines’ top professional league.

His determination to play for his Kia Carnival team has raised fears he might get injured before the fight, which US media report could net him an $80 million pay cheque.

“I know what I’m doing,” said the 1.69-metre (5-foot 6-inch) Pacquiao, a devout Christian who is also the shortest and oldest player in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA).

He said he would also hit the court again on Saturday, hours before his US flight.

“My Lord, my God, He is the Creator of everything. He knows everything,” he added, pointing to the ceiling and repeating his mantra that God will keep him from harm.

Unlike his boxing, however, Pacquiao’s basketball career has been underwhelming.

He has scored one solitary point, off a free throw, in his rookie season as player-coach for Kia Carnival.