Manny Pacquiao, right, and Keith Thurman exchange punches in the seventh round during a welterweight title fight Saturday, July 20, 2019, in Las Vegas. | AP Photo
LAS VEGAS (AP) — Manny Pacquiao knocked down Keith Thurman in the first round and persevered for an exciting split-decision victory in their WBA welterweight championship bout at the MGM Grand Garden Arena Saturday night (Sunday noon, Philippine time), adding a third straight win to his career resurgence after turning 40 years old.
Pacquiao lands a right to the jaw of Thurman. | AP photo
Pacquiao (62-7-2) dropped his previously unbeaten opponent with a combination late in the first round, and the “Pacman” dominated the opening rounds with a combination of flair and power that recalled the incredible prime of the only eight-division champion in boxing history.
Thurman (29-1) showed remarkable tenacity in rallying through the middle rounds, repeatedly testing Pacquiao’s chin with big shots.
Two judges, Dave Moretti and Tim Cheatham, scored the bout 115-112 for Pacquiao, while Glenn Feldman scored it 114-113 for Thurman. The Associated Press also scored it 115-112 for Pacquiao.
Pacquiao is now the oldest holder of a major welterweight title in boxing history.
“I was blessed tonight,” said Pacquiao after the victory.