How Yordenis Ugas Systematically Shut Down Manny Pacquiao’s Offense
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Manny Pacquiao returned to action after two years out to take on Yordenis Ugas in front of a packed crowd at the T-Mobile Arena. ‘PacMan’ was initially set to face Errol Spence Jr, but an injury to the champion forced him out of the bout. Ugas stepped in on short notice to accept a fight against one of the biggest names in boxing.
Many believed that this would be the last time we see ‘PacMan’ in action. Therefore, the night was supposed to be a tribute to a legend as he secured yet another win in his storied career. Ugas, however, had other intentions as he dominated from the very first bell to secure an impressive win over ‘PacMan’.
Is Manny Pacquiao’s Boxing Career Finished?
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What went wrong for Pacquiao? And how did Ugas secure the biggest win of his career? Let’s take a closer look.
Is age finally catching up to Manny Pacquiao?
The first and the most obvious factor here is age. ‘PacMan’ is 42. He has not been active since his last fight, which was in July 2019. That is a lot of time out of action. Pacquiao built his reputation on being a volume puncher with an unending gas tank. Also, the former eight-division world champion had blinding speed and accuracy. However, none of the aforementioned elements were on display today.
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From 2007 to 2011, which were arguably Pacquiao’s prime years, he landed a mind-boggling 73 punches per round. In his last five fights prior to Ugas, he landed 47 punches per round. Which all but shows ‘PacMan’ slowing down with age. Furthermore, Ugas used his height and reach well to keep the former champion at bay.
‘PacMan’ was often seen lunging in and had to throw several shots to work his way into the pocket. Over the course of the fight, Pacquiao threw 815 punches and landed only 130, which is a mere 16%. Ugas, on the other hand, threw 405 and landed 151, which is an accuracy of 37%. Ugas also did a good job of catching Pacquiao as he rushed in.
Ugas' length, jab & accurate power punching (59% landed) the difference vs. Pacquiao, who landed just 16% of his total punches. Manny landed 19% in his loss to Mayweather. @PBConFOX pic.twitter.com/SfjqaJZ6Ql
— CompuBox (@CompuBox) August 22, 2021
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Pacquiao has cemented his place amongst the best to ever step into a squared circle. He has been an inspiration for many, not just in his country, but around the world. Unfortunately, it appears age has caught up with him and he is no longer the fighter he used to be.
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