Filipino boxing legend Manny Pacquiao defeated reigning WBA welterweight champion Keith Thurman in a thrilling 12-round battle on Saturday. The WBA welterweight title fight was played at MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. The 40-year-old boxer won the match by split decision. The two judges ruled the match in favour of Pacquiao 115-112, while the third judge ruled 114-113 in favour of Thurman. With the victory, Manny Pacquiao has claimed the WBA Super Welterweight title. Pacquiao also handed Thurman his first career loss in pro boxing. Philippine Boxer Manny Pacquiao’s Camp Denies Amir Khan’s Claim of a Bout in Saudi Arabia. 

Pacquiao floored Thurman in the first round and kept on his great fight during the match. Pacquiao (62-7-2, 39 KOs) recorded a knockdown in the opening round which proved the difference for his victory. The victory proved a huge achievement for Pacquiao at this age. Both the fighters competed at an insane pace to thrill the audience seated at MGM Grand Garden Arena.

The duo traded shots several times throughout the fight, tearing each other with heavy blows. Pacquiao also dominated the second round and even performed some dancing steps after the end of the round. Pacquiao dominated in the third and fourth round as well. Thurman made a great comeback from the fifth round but Pacquiao early dominance helped him to emerge victorious at the end.

The Manny Pacquiao vs Keith Thurman fight was a much-awaited clash for the fans and the result of the match invited reactions on social media. Have a look at some of the comments.

Go on! 

Congrats Pacquiao! 

Keep it up Pacquiao

Pacquiao rocks

#PacquiaoThurman became a trending search on Twitter with lots of comments praising the Filipino boxer. Fans were amused to witness Pacquiao bagging a title at the age of 40 and the could not keep themselves away from congratulating the legendary boxer for his achievement.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 21, 2019 11:49 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).