Manny Pacquiao turned back the time at the MGM Grand Garden in Las Vegas last Sunday, 21 July with a tight split decision victory over Keith Thurman to claim the WBA Welterweight “Super” World Title.
The 40-year-old captured Thurman’s World Title with scores of 115-112, 115-112 and 113-114, in an exciting clash of boxing giants in the welterweight division.
A lot of people were left impressed by Pacquiao, who seemed to be aging like fine wine. This includes Team Lakay head coach Mark Sangiao, who was left wowed with how “Pacman” continues to defy father time.
“Pacquiao’s still impressive at age 40. He showed what good physical and mental conditioning can do. He continues to rack up impressive wins against top competition,” Sangiao said.
“He dominated Thurman in the early rounds, he even got a knock down. Thurman got back at him in the middle of the bout but overall, it was a great standing for Manny.”
With his lightning-quick punches and non-stop combinations, Pacquiao displayed his vintage scary form against the brash-talking American in the early rounds.
Pacquiao got Thurman down in the first with a body shot-straight left combination, much to the delight of the 15,000 people in the venue.
Thurman managed to make a match out of it, but with the momentum on his side – there was no stopping Pacman.
For the 39-year-old Sangiao, the biggest difference was Pacquiao’s speed.
“Thurman is tough. He maintains his pressure. Even though Manny might be too fast for him, he still keeps moving forward. The biggest difference of the match was Manny’s speed,” Sangiao said.
With all eyes on Pacquiao after his triumphant win, it proves that Pacquiao’s charisma and pull among boxing fans remain undisputed.
“By beating someone undefeated and 10 years younger than him, Manny continues to inspire the Filipinos to keep on working hard and keep the faith,” Sangiao said. “He just continues to be an inspiration for all of us.”