SEN. Manny Pacquiao believes unified International Boxing Federation (IBF) and World Boxing Council (WBC) welterweight champion Errol Spence Jr. pales in comparison with Keith Thurman when it comes to speed.
“He [Spence] is too slow,” Pacquiao (62-7-2 win-loss-draw record with 39 knockouts) told BusinessMirror over the weekend in reaction to Spence’s unanimous decision victory over fellow American Danny Garcia last month in Arlington.
“Spence is slower than Thurman but it’s going to be a good fight,” said Pacquiao, who nailed a split decision victory over Thurman last July 20, 2019, at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas highlighted by a powerful knockdown in the first round.
Although he already announced his intention to fight Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) super star Conor McGregor in Dubai this year, Pacquiao, 42, also expressed his desire to fight the likes of Spence or Terence Crawford.
“They’re my options, but right now I want to experience fighting an MMA [mixed martial artist],” said Pacquiao, referring to McGregor. “I will also donate a big portion of my income to Filipino Covid-19 victims.”
Spence—undefeated in 27 fights with 21 knockouts—became a different fighter after a horrific car crash that almost took his life last October in Dallas, Texas.
“I think Spence lost a step from the accident,” said MP Promotions President Sean Gibbons, noting the reigning World Boxing Association welterweight champion Pacquiao would give him a good run if they fight. “It’s a difficult fight but I think, yes [Pacquiao beating Spence].”
Pacquiao said he could land more solid punches on Spence if he would fight that way.
The eight-weight division world champion added he won’t be retiring yet from professional boxing, saying he would be fighting at the most twice this year.
