Manny Pacquiao has proved once and for all that he is a GOAT. The 40-year-old not only outboxed the formerly unbeaten champion Keith Thurman but outclasses him over 12 rounds on Saturday at the MGM Grand Garden Arena to capture the WBA title in a split decision.
AP reports that Pacquiao (62-7-2) dropped his previously unbeaten opponent with a combination late in the first round, and the Pac-Man dominated the opening rounds with a combination of flair and power that recalled the incredible prime of the only eight-division champion in boxing history.
30-year Thurman commented after the decision by the judges and said: “I knew it was too close. He got the knockdown so he had momentum in round one. This was a beautiful night of boxing.”
I’ve always said I’m not afraid to let my 0 go, if you can beat me — beat me. @MannyPacquiao beat me tonight. Hats off to the Senator on a great performance. #OneTime #PacThurman pic.twitter.com/piX4A6lUOA
— Keith Thurman Jr. (@keithfthurmanjr) July 21, 2019
AFP reports that Thurmancame back in the later rounds to narrow Pacquiao’s lead, however the judges scored it in the Filipino senator’s favour. Two judges scored it 115-112 for Pacquiao with the third scoring it 114-113 for Thurman.
Twitter was noteably overjoyed by the 40-year-olds win.
8-Division World Champion
Senator
Future Hall of Famer
Father
Husband
Living Legend
And now WBA Welterweight Champion of the World
Manny “Pac-Man” PacquiaoThe product of humility, hard-work and perseverance
Still swinging at 40, you still got it.#PacquiaoThurman pic.twitter.com/kI89dlc88b
— (@imthedopey) July 21, 2019
Congratulations @MannyPacquiao! This photo is BADASS! #PacquiaoThurman #PacmanThurman pic.twitter.com/8IOuPmKUVH
— Justin Ng (@JusNg) July 21, 2019
Former Miss Universe Catriona Gray was also one of the Filipinos key supporters.
Catriona's still waving the flag haha what a cutie #PacquiaoThurman pic.twitter.com/xiC74BcrzH
— ً (@raphaelmiguel) July 21, 2019
Pacquiao is set to return to his post as senator in the Philippines after this incredible match. Will we see the star in the ring soon? Well, Thurman said he’dlove a rematch. So we’ll just have to wait and see.
