Kickboxer Rukiya Anpo laughed off any suggestion that he’d get knocked out by Manny Pacquiao after going three rounds with the boxing legend.
On Sunday, Anpo scored a credible draw with Pacquiao, who looked rusty after almost two years out on his return to action. Anpo got far the better of the fight and, at times, gave the 45-year-old veteran a beating.
Upon reflection, Anpo brushed off a pre-fight underdog tag and revealed he’d be honing his boxing skills for some time. If anything, it was Anpo who wanted to get the KO.
Anpo said, “I really want to finish him off, but he’s tough. Manny Pacquiao’s punches weren’t really heavy. I’m having fun. I feel like I’m on a roll,” added the champion kickboxer.
Pacquiao, who is lining up a stunning WBC welterweight title shot later this year, stated the fight was a “good tune-up” for him. However, ‘Pac-Man’ pointed out the obvious differences between the two combat stars.
“He is strong and fights well even though he lacks experience. He’s also way bigger than me,” said the eight-weight ex-pound-for-pound king.
THANK YOU EVERYONE! Thank you Rizin for a great event and to Anpo for a great fight. THANK YOU TO ALL OF JAPAN! Thanks to my family, team, and friends for your love and support. Thank you, my fellow Filipinos, for your prayers and support. Mabuhay ang Pilipinas 🇵🇭
Above all,… pic.twitter.com/sKJuxrUBXH
— Manny Pacquiao (@MannyPacquiao) July 28, 2024
Taking to social media, Pacquiao acknowledged his Sunday appearance on RIZIN and thanked his opponent for the move around.
“Thank you, everyone. Thank you, RIZIN, for a great event, and to Anpo, for a great fight and thank you to all of Japan!
“Also, thanks to my family, team, and friends for your love and support. Thank you, my fellow Filipinos, for your prayers and support.”
Furthermore, what happens next for Pacquiao after a humbling showing is up for debate. Premier Boxing Champions and Al Haymon may need a bit more convincing to put the clash with Marios Barrios for the WBC title on Pay Per View.
A potential second tune-up might be needed before Pacquiao officially asks for WBC consideration to be the next green and gold belt challenger at 147 pounds.
Read all articles and exclusive interviews by Phil Jay. Learn more about the author, experienced boxing writer, and World Boxing News Editor since 2010. Follow on Twitter @PhilJWBN.
