MANILA, Philippines – A first round knockdown set the tone for Manny Pacquiao as he outpointed American boxer Keith Thurman in their highly anticipated WBA welterweight showdown at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas on Saturday night (Sunday in Manila).
At 40 years old, the "Pacman" still displayed tremendous speed, punching power, and a tough chin en route to claiming a split decision over Thurman, a man 10 years younger.
One judge scored the bout 114-113 for Thurman, but the two other judges saw it in Pacquiao's favor, 115-112, giving the Filipino the victory – and the WBA welterweight championship in what was his 28th world title fight.
"He did his best, and I did my best, so the people are happy," said Pacquiao, who had his name chanted by the partisan MGM crowd all night long.
"Thurman . . . he did his best, he's not an easy opponent. He's a good boxer, he's strong, and I'm just blessed tonight," he added.
Pacquiao improved his record to 62 wins, with 7 losses and 2 draws. Thurman, meanwhile, lost for the first time in his professional career to drop to 29-1.
(More details to follow.)
source: news.abs-cbn.com
