Manny Pacquiao defeated Keith Thurman on Saturday (Photo: Stephanie Trapp – TGB Promotions)
By Chris Robinson
Manny Pacquiao left another memorable impression on boxing fans on Saturday night with an epic triumph over the very dangerous Keith Thurman. Pacquiao (62-7-2, 39 KO’s) captured a 12-round split-decision victory over Thurman (29-1, 22 KO’s), with two 115-112 scorecards favoring the Filipino legend and one 114-113 tally going the other way.
Pacquiao stormed out of the gates with a big first round, knocking down Thurman with a sneaky counter shot that set the tone of the fight. From that point forward, Pacquiao took control with his quickness, activity, and punch output.
“It was fun,” said Pacquiao post-fight. “My opponent is a good fighter and boxer. He was strong. I’m not that kind of boxer who talks a lot; we were just promoting the fight. I think he did his best, and I did my best. I think we made the fans happy tonight because it was a good fight.”
The sell-out crowd of 14,356 also witnessed a brave display from Thurman, who had several big moments over the second half of the fight.
“I knew it was too close,” said Thurman. “He got the knockdown so he had momentum in round one.”
Up next for Pacquiao could possibly be the winner of the Sep. 28 unification between IBF champion Errol Spence Jr. and WBC champion Shawn Porter.
Chris Robinson can be reached at CRobinson@hustleboss.com