Manny Pacquiao kept his career far more than just ?alive? on Saturday night, beating Keith Thurman by decision to win the WBA welterweight title and take a younger fighter?s undefeated record in Las Vegas.
Asked to rank where he ranks this victory in his career, Pacquiao (62-7-2, 39 KO) lists it as among his better nights ever.
?I think I can rank this with the Margarito fight, the De La Hoya fight, the Morales fights, the Marquez fights, the Barrera fights,? Pacquiao said. ?You saw tonight what we did in the ring. My opponent was very tough and strong, also. It?s the first time I?ve encountered someone who was heavy-handed like Keith Thurman.?
It?s high praise from the 40-year-old Pacquiao, as Thurman (29-1, 22 KO) did have plenty of moments and wasn?t easy for Pacquiao, though the decision was entirely fair.
Now 40, it?s up in the air where Pacquiao will go from here, but he says he?s not planning to return until 2020, when he?ll be 41. Given his star power, world titleholder status, and connections, there?s every chance he?ll be back in yet again with another top-tier, young welterweight opponent.
