Manny Pacquiao has confirmed his next fight will be against the rugged Argentine WBA (regular) world welterweight champion, Lucas Matthysse. The fight will take place in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on June 24th.
The fight will be Pacquiao’s first return to the ring since surrendering the WBO world welterweight title to Australia’s Jeff Horn last summer on Horn’s home soil.
Pacquiao boasts a thorough pedigree and record of 59-7-2 and will go up against the knockout sensation Matthyse who comes into the fight with a stellar 39-4 record.
Matthysse will put the WBA welterweight title that he won from Tewa Kiram inside of eight rounds, on the line.
The fight will officially be announced on March 22 in Malaysia, with a press tour across other major Asian cities to follow.Pacquiao began by explaining how his and Matthysse’s aggressive, come forward style of fighting will blend well with his own for an enthralling encounter.
‘I like his (Matthysse’s) aggressive fighting style.
Pacquiao made his superstar name with an all-action style of fighting earning him recognition. He says it has always been his focus to provide spectators with entertainment.
https://twitter.com/mannypacquiao/status/971742037249675264
‘That’s what I want, to entertain the boxing fans. Besides, Matthysse is not a dirty fighter and I highly respect him for that,’
Additionally, Pacquiao says the lingering WBA welterweight title on the line in this matchup is motivating him and fuelling his desire.
I knew, this is going to be a tough fight. Matthysse is also a knockout artist. But I’m excited to fight and be a world champion again. So, expect me to train hard for this fight,’ ‘The Pacman’ added.
Lastly, Pacquiao shared that he is the underdog in this upcoming fight. A statement that some may dispute and that outlook is adding more fuel to the fire for Pacquiao in the twilight of his career.
‘I’m the underdog in this fight but I’m used to it. It serves as a big motivation for me to train and fight hard to win the crown.’
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