By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña
Manny Pacquiao managed to stand his ground against the taller and bigger Rukiya Anpo during their exhibition boxing bout on July 28, 2024, held at the Saitama Super Arena in Japan.
Making his comeback inside the boxing ring after fighting YouTube star DK Yoo two years ago, Pacquiao had a tough task containing the younger Anpo who was a former K-1 kickboxing super lightweight champion.
Fortunately, the match ended in a draw, as a win under the Super RIZIN exhibition boxing bout will have to be earned by knocking out your opponent.
It was a rough start for the Filipino boxing living legend as Anpo immediately took advantage of his strength and reach.
In the first minute of the opening round, Pacquiao failed to land a clean shot while Anpo was already sending a flurry of jabs that caused a cut above the Filipino’s eye.
Anpo clinched the much-needed momentum heading into the second round as his snappy jabs continued to disrupt Pacquiao’s intent of cutting the distance.
However, midway through the second frame, Pacquiao began to heat up and courageously stepped inside Anpo’s attacking space, initiating the heavy exchanges that put pressure on the Japanese kickboxer.
Pacquiao finally waxed hot in the third as his fluid head movement and signature in-and-out attack worked against Anpo, connecting on several body shots including a big uppercut that put the crowd on their feet.
In the final 30 seconds of the fight, Pacquiao relentlessly stalked Anpo despite getting hit but got a huge return after landing several big right hooks.
The action-packed exhibition bout then officially ended in a draw as both fighters didn’t score a knockout or a technical knockout win.
