Manny Pacquiao vs Ugas: On August 21, 2021, at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, boxing legend Manny Pacquiao faced off against WBA (Super) welterweight champion Yordenis Ugas. Originally scheduled to fight Errol Spence Jr., Pacquiao instead squared off against Ugas, who stepped in on 11 days’ notice due to Spence’s eye injury. The bout concluded with Ugas retaining his title via unanimous decision, with judges scoring it 116–112, 116–112, and 115–113
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Round-by-Round Breakdown of Manny Pacquiao vs Ugas
Round 1:
Both fighters began cautiously, with Ugas utilizing his jab to establish distance. Pacquiao displayed his signature speed, landing a few straight lefts. The round concluded with Ugas pushing Pacquiao down, which was ruled a slip .
Round 2:
Ugas continued to work behind his jab, effectively keeping Pacquiao at bay. Pacquiao attempted to close the distance but struggled to land significant shots.
Round 3:
Pacquiao increased his aggression, landing combinations to the head. However, Ugas remained composed, countering effectively with right hands.
Round 4:
Ugas began to find his rhythm, landing clean right hands and controlling the pace. Pacquiao’s output remained high, but his accuracy waned.
Round 5:
The Cuban champion continued to dictate the fight with his jab and timely counters. Pacquiao showed signs of frustration, unable to penetrate Ugas’s defense.
Round 6:
Ugas landed a significant right hand that momentarily stunned Pacquiao. Pacquiao responded with flurries but failed to connect cleanly.
Round 7:
Pacquiao displayed urgency, increasing his punch volume. Ugas, however, maintained his composure, landing precise counters.
Round 8:
Ugas’s jab continued to be a pivotal weapon, disrupting Pacquiao’s rhythm. The Filipino icon’s footwork appeared less sharp than in previous bouts.
Round 9:
Both fighters exchanged combinations, but Ugas’s shots were more effective and accurate. Pacquiao’s attempts to rally were met with stiff resistance.
Round 10:
Ugas showcased his defensive prowess, slipping Pacquiao’s attacks and responding with counters. Pacquiao’s face showed signs of wear, with swelling evident.
Round 11:
The pace slowed slightly, with Ugas maintaining control. Pacquiao’s efforts to turn the tide were thwarted by Ugas’s consistent jab and movement.
Round 12:
In the final round, both fighters engaged in spirited exchanges. Ugas landed a notable right hand, causing a cut above Pacquiao’s left eye. Despite Pacquiao’s valiant efforts, Ugas finished the stronger of the two .
Fight Statistics of Manny Pacquiao vs Ugas
- Total Punches Landed:
- Pacquiao: 130 of 815 (16%)
- Ugas: 151 of 405 (37.3%)
- Jabs Landed:
- Pacquiao: 42
- Ugas: 50
- Power Punches Landed:
- Pacquiao: 88
- Ugas: 101
Ugas’s efficiency and accuracy were evident, landing a higher percentage of punches despite throwing fewer .
Conclusion on Manny Pacquiao vs Ugas Fight
Yordenis Ugas’s victory over Manny Pacquiao marked a significant moment in boxing, showcasing the Cuban’s skill and composure against a legendary opponent. For Pacquiao, the bout highlighted the challenges of competing at the highest level at age 42. While he hinted at a possible rematch, Pacquiao officially announced his retirement from boxing on September 29, 2021, concluding an illustrious career that spanned over two decades.
