5 Defining Moments: Manny Pacquiao

In his most recent action, Manny Pacquiao claimed a decisive victory over Adrien Broner, which marked two straight impressive wins for the veteran pugilist. Despite these ageless performances, fans wonder if he still has what it takes to mix it up with other top welterweights like Keith Thurman, Danny Garcia and Shawn Porter. Before any negotiations are had, let’s look back at some of the boxing great’s career-defining moments.

1. Pacquiao vs. Barrera I

Pacquiao’s first trip to the United States was when he stepped up on two weeks’ notice to challenge Lehlohonolo Ledwaba for the IBF super bantamweight title. While he turned some heads with that impressive sixth round TKO, many were still doubtful if he could hang with the likes of Marco Antonio Barrera and Erik Morales. On Nov. 15, 2003, those questions were answered when he moved up to featherweight and defeated Barrera by TKO. With the victory, Pacquiao asserted himself on the world stage.

2. Pacquiao vs. Oscar De La Hoya

When Pacquiao met De La Hoya on Dec. 6, 2008, he was already regarded as the top pound-for-pound fighter in the world. Still, many felt De La Hoya could be too big and strong for the Filipino. To give some perspective, Pacquiao started his professional career as a flyweight. De La Hoya was a welterweight, which is seven weight classes higher. As it turned out, Pacquiao dominated his opponent, landing 224 punches against De La Hoya’s 83. The victory proved his capacity to retain power no matter the weight division. Fans hyped the fact that Pacquiao gave the six-division world champion a beating, something Mayweather wasn’t able to do in his victory over “The Golden Boy.”

3. Pacquiao vs. Juan Manuel Marquez IV

With one fight drawn and two tightly-contested decisions going Pacquiao’s favor, the two top-caliber fighters fought for a fourth and last time on Dec. 8, 2012. Unlike any of their previous meetings, this one was decided by a well-timed overhand right from the Mexican. The shocking end came with just one second left in round 6. It marked the first time that “Pac-Man” was knocked out in more than 13 years.

4. Pacquiao vs. Floyd Mayweather

Their actual encounter didn’t compare to the excitement of the buildup, but it did settle an argument. After half a decade of disputes and misunderstandings, the dream match finally came to fruition on May 2, 2015. Mayweather controlled much of the uneventful affair that lasted 12 rounds. In the end, the American was awarded the unanimous decision victory.

5. Pacquiao vs. Broner

Sure, a loss to Broner wouldn’t harm Pacquiao’s legacy, but “Pac-Man” needed to win this fight if he wanted to extend his career. Now 40, the fighting Senator showed flashes of old form, taking the loudmouth to school over 12 grueling rounds. It was his first fight at the MGM Grand Garden Arena since defeating Timothy Bradley a second time. While the result wasn’t shocking, it could lead to bigger fights down the line with perhaps any of the previously mentioned contenders or a rematch with Mayweather.