Manny Pacquiao celebrates after defeating Timothy Bradley Jr.by unanimous decision in their welterweight championship fight on April 9, 2016 at MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada.
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Pacquiao admitted afterwards that while he was conflicted about quitting the ring, his decision – for now – was to spend more time with his family before concentrating on his political career in the Philippines, where he is seeking election to the Senate next month.
Bradley’s response was strong and he won the eighth round as he had Pacquiao on the back foot, but a second knockdown followed in the ninth. “Maybe I enjoy being a retired man, serving the people, helping the people”. The Filipino boxer answered a clear left counter punch on his American rival that caused him to be back down in the canvas for the second time.
If he really is hanging up his gloves, then Manny Pacquiao put a exclamation mark on his legendary career last night with a dominant performance against Timothy Bradley. Pacquiao headlined 22 pay-per-view fights, generating more than 18 million buys and $1.2 billion in PPV revenue.
If it was Pacquiao’s last fight, he goes out as one of the biggest pay-per-view attractions in the sport. “That’s kind of up to him”, he added. “I just want to go home, be with my family and serve the people”.
Following the win, Sport360 has taken a look at four worthy opponents who Pacquiao could be tempted to come out of retirement to fight.
“I did my best, his style is counterpunching”.
Marquez said that even though Canelo is significantly bigger than Pacquiao, he would be very interested in seeing that fight.
Still, Pacquiao gave credit Bradley for his gallant stand, praising him for his toughness. The network said it had an “obligation” to both fighters.
HBO faced criticism over the weekend because of Pacquiao’s comment on a Philippines TV broadcast.
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Jun Dumaran, 64, a retired government employee who travelled to the city from Isulan, Sultan Kudarat with wife and son to watch the live airing of the fight at the Abreeza of the Ayala Malls, said Pacquiao’s performance was better this time after putting Bradley down twice. Roach wants Pacquiao to fight Saul “Canelo” Alvarez with a rehydration clause to limit his ability to gain weight after the weigh-in. “I wasn’t professional enough to be patient myself, and I walked into some shots”.
