Boxing legend Manny Pacquiao made a return to the ring at the age of 45 but put on a disappointing performance against kickboxer Rukiya Anpo, resulting in a beatdown.
Pacquiao risked a potential WBC welterweight title fight as he faced Anpo at Super RIZIN 3 in Japan, effectively ending his chances of facing Mario Barrios.
World Boxing News reported that Pacquiao was unexpectedly given a shot against Barrios, approved by WBC President Mauricio Sulaiman. However, after his lackluster performance, the anticipated superfight with Barrios is no longer on the table.
Anpo utilized his advantages in the ring to dominate over the slower and smaller Pacquiao, ultimately deserving the victory. Despite there being no judges, the fight ended in a draw after three rounds, with both fighters showing mutual respect.
Ryan Garcia, a special guest of RIZIN, made a surprising appearance in the ring, challenging both Anpo and Pacquiao despite being suspended from combat until April 2025.
Ryan Garcia channels his inner Inspector Gadget as he challenges @anpo_rukiya and @MannyPacquiaoAfter their exhibition draw.
🎥 @RIZINTV_pic.twitter.com/KHuwSZ6Q4U
— World Boxing News (@WorldBoxingNews) July 28, 2024
Anpo’s response to Garcia implied a potential return to kickboxing, while many are calling for Pacquiao to retire from boxing.
The future of the eight-weight champion is uncertain, but one thing is clear – Pacquiao’s PPV sales will likely suffer following his disappointing performance in Japan.
Reports suggest that Premier Boxing Champions were considering a final PPV event for Pacquiao in Las Vegas, but after his recent display, that opportunity may no longer be feasible.
For more articles and exclusive interviews by Phil Jay, an experienced boxing writer and World Boxing News Editor since 2010, follow him on Twitter @PhilJWBN.
