Boxing legend Manny Pacquiao‘s return to the ring ended in defeat, going down via unanimous decision to Cuba’s Yordenis Ugas.
It was Pacman’s first fight in two years, and his first loss since being beaten by Jeff Horn in Brisbane back in 2017.
“Could this be the final round in the career of Manny Pacquiao?” Was the question asked on commentary as the fight entered the 12th, with Ugas ahead on all three cards.
American boxer Regis Prograis was watching the fight, and after seeing a dominant performance from Ugas said that “Win or lose this should probably be his last fight.”
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In what felt like a formality, it was announced that the three judges scored the fight 115-113, 116-112, 116-112 in favour of Ugas to a muted reception from a pro-Pacquiao crowd in Las Vegas.
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“I told you, I am the champion of the WBA and I showed it tonight,” Ugas said afterwards.
“He’s a great competitor, but I came in here to show that I am the champion.”
The 42-year-old Pacquiao shrugged off the inevitable questions of retirement.
“I don’t know. Let me relax first and make a decision on if I continue to fight or not,” he said.
“I’m so thankful to the fans for coming here to witness the fight live.
“I’m sorry that I lost tonight, but I did my best – I apologise.”
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He was also asked if he would be running for president of his home nation next year.
“I will make a final announcement next month, I know that I’m facing a big problem in more difficult worlds than boxing. But I want to help the people.”
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