Manny Pacquiao became WBA Super Champion by split decision
Filipino Manny Pacquiao defeated American Keith Thurman in twelve rounds this Saturday by split decision to win the World Boxing Association (WBA) welterweight champion in Las Vegas.
The fight for the WBA belt marked a momentous milestone for both fighters. Both Pacquiao and Thurman have accomplished a memorable feat. The Filipino joined the exclusive club of champions who have won titles for more than 40 years, and for the American, a confrontation with a legend like "PacMan" has given prestige shine to a career of ups and downs.
Pacquiao is now the division's new super champion after taking away Thurman's undefeated as well.
At the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, the Filipino made a great demonstration that at 40 years old he is still one of the great boxers of all time.
Two judges gave the Filipino the winner by 115-112 and 115-112, while the third gave the fight to the American by 114-113.
"Boxing is my passion," Pacquiao said after the fight, when asked about continuing his sports career.
From the first round it was clear that a fight with a lot of action would be seen. In that round, both boxers exchanged blows. But the one who hit the best was Pacquiao, who sent his opponent to the canvas with a right hook. The 30-year-old American, still undefeated, held out for the few seconds left before the bell rang.
With agility and power, the Filipino clearly dominated until the seventh round. Later, Thurman came off defense and got the Asian superstar in trouble.
In the 10th round, Pacquiao managed to land a forceful blow in the zone. Thurman managed to avoid the early denouement and, in the final seconds, attacked the Filipino, drowned by the search for the knockout.
"My rival is a good fighter and boxer. He was strong, I think he did everything he could, and I did everything I could. Tonight we made the public happy, because it was a good fight," declared Pacquiao.
There was a special spectator: Floyd Mayweather, who followed the fight from the front row, who defeated Pacquiao in 2015 and who everyone wants to see again face to face with the Filipino.
