MANILA – American fighter Keith Thurman admitted that Filipino ring icon Manny Pacquiao was the better fighter in their WBA world super welterweight belt clash last week at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada.
The previously-unbeaten Thurman admitted that his split decision loss to Pacquiao was “a blessing and a lesson” for him as he hoped to share the ring anew with the Filipino champion soon.
“I knew it was close,” Thurman said. “(Pacquiao) had the momentum because he got the knockdown in Round One. I wish I had a little bit more output to go toe-to-toe with Manny.”
“My conditioning, output was way behind Pacquiao. It was a great night of boxing,” he added. “Manny Pacquiao is a truly great, great legendary champion.I would love a rematch.”
Pacquiao, for his part, said it was not a walk in park victory for him as Thurman put up a huge challenge from start to finish but only gained leverage with his speed and experience.
“He was not an easy opponent. He was really strong,” Pacquiao said. “Thurman…he did his best. I did my best to make the people happy. Maybe I am returning to the ring next year.”/PN
