“Pinoy Pride” Manny Pacquiao bit off more than he could chew when he faced Ruyika Anpo during an exhibition match at Saitama, Japan, on Sunday, July 28th.
Fans and critics are expecting Pacquaio vs Anpo to be a light workout in the former’s favor. However, it turns out to be a tough 3-round test for the boxing legend. Manny Pacquaio was planning a potential comeback within late 2024.
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The Pinoy Pride, standing over just 5-foot-5, struggles with the 6-foot Japanese MMA fighter. Ruyika Anpo was serious during the entire match. While he has a career in kickboxing with over 30 fights, this is Anpo’s first professional boxing match.
“This is my first time boxing and against such a strong legend,” Anpo commented in regards to the fight. “I’m inspired he fought despite the size difference.”
The Japanese MMA fighter also added that Pacquiao was tough, being unable to knock him out.
Pacquiao struggles to get past Anpo’s defenses. Anpo, on the other hand, was able to land significant blows with ease. His strikes drew out cheers from fans, who filled the entire Saitama Super Arena at that time.
While Manny Pacquiao tried his best to land his hits, he hardly put Japan’s favorite in any trouble. Anpo has the edge over Pacquiao during the nine-minute fight. Pacman was able to get even when he threw blurring and tried to down Anpo with his trademark left.
Despite being an exhibition match with no official scores, the fight was a smashing hit and drew over 48,000 fans. The match was declared a draw.
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“This is a good tuneup for me to come back in boxing,” Pacquiao said in an interview. “And I realized a lot of things to develop more and work on.”
Pacquiao also commends Anpo’s performance. “He’s strong and fights well even though he lacks experience. He’s also way bigger than me.”
The 12 major world title-holder is looking to challenge WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios within October or November.
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