By Michael Angelo S. Murillo
Senior Reporter

FILIPINO boxing legend Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao added another accolade to his legendary career after claiming the World Boxing Association super welterweight title on Sunday (Manila time) after beating erstwhile American champion Keith “One Time” Thurman by split decision at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Showing firmer command for the most part of the scheduled 12-rounder, 40-year-old Pacquiao took everything that Mr. Thurman, 30, threw at him and went away successful, winning, 115-112, 113-114 and 115-112 for the split decision win.

The only eight-division world champ established early control of the match, even sending Mr. Thurman down the canvas in the opening round with a combination to the body and head.

It was a momentum that Mr. Pacquiao would build on until his opponent gained some traction of his own at the start of the seventh round.

The American got Mr. Pacquiao with clear shots from the seventh to the ninth round to narrow the gap and make a strong case for himself.

Mr. Pacquiao, however, would regain his footing and stood toe-to-toe with Mr. Thurman in the last three rounds, doing more than enough damage to hold on for the victory.

While happy and proud with the win, Mr. Pacquiao, also a sitting senator of the republic, acknowledged that it was in no way easy, and that Mr. Thurman was a tough opponent.

“He’s strong and not an easy opponent, said Mr. Pacquiao, who improved to 62-7-2 with the win, in the post-fight interview.

“We both did our best and I think we made the fans happy,” he added.

For Mr. Thurman (29-1 with one no contest), he did not contest the decision, believing the opening-round knockdown made a huge difference in the end even as he underscored the legend of Mr. Pacquiao.

“I knew it was a close fight but he had the knockdown in the first round. Pacquiao is legendary,” a more humble Thurman said after.

MALACAÑANG CONGRATS PACQUIAO
Meanwhile, following Mr. Pacquiao’s victory, Malacañan Palace issued a statement congratulating the Filipino champion for bringing another source of pride for the nation.

“At the start of the year, Senator Emmanuel “Manny” Pacquiao made the whole country proud as he successfully defended his WBA welterweight belt over American Adrien Broner. Six months later, he doubled this feat as he defeated Keith Thurman today via split decision, even knocking him down in the 1st round,” said Salvador S. Panelo, Chief Presidential Legal Counsel and Presidential Spokesperson, in the statement.

“Pacquiao’s victory is not only his, but of the entire nation. As such, the Palace is one in rejoicing with the Filipino people as the Pambansang Kamao once again puts the flag above the pedestal with his display of tenacity and courage,” the statement further read.

Mr. Pacquiao said his next fight could be next year.

Among those present to witness the Pacquiao-Thurman fight live were boxing legend Floyd Mayweather Jr., who is once again being floated to be the next opponent for Mr. Pacquiao, and National Basketball Association superstar and champion Kawhi Leonard of now the Los Angeles Clippers.

Also present was Ms. Universe 2018 Catriona Gray of the Philippines.

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