Commentary: Manny Pacquiao’s victory would be the ultimate farewell to a storied career
LA TimesManny Pacquiao celebrates after defeating Keith Thurman by split decision for the WBA welterweight title in Las Vegas on Saturday. When Manny Pacquiao, the boxing senator from the Philippines, emerged from the ring Saturday night at the MGM Grand Garden Arena, the fighting fireplug had conquered two formidable opponents — unbeaten welterweight champion Keith Thurman and seldom-beaten all-division champion Father Time. For Pacquiao, Saturday night’s stirring victory over Thurman was his hole-in-one, ace on match point and grand slam homer all in one. Manny Pacquiao, right, and Keith Thurman exchange punches in the second round of their welterweight title fight in Las Vegas on Saturday. The reporter tapped his heart and said, “He has this for the people.” Saturday night’s fight was not only a moment of lasting legacy for Pacquiao, but perhaps an important moment in his country’s history.