Tiebreaker Times by Nissi Icasiano
Manny Pacquiao found himself unexpectedly challenged by Japanese kickboxer Rukiya Anpo in a thrilling exhibition match.
Their three-round boxing bout served as the co-main event of Super Rizin 3, held at the iconic Super Saitama Arena in Japan on Sunday.
Anpo, standing 6 feet tall, effectively utilized his reach and size advantage, keeping Pacquiao at bay with hard punches.
The 45-year-old southpaw struggled to close the distance as Anpo’s leverage in length thwarted his attempts to unleash his signature offensive flurries.
The stark contrast from Pacquiao’s prime years as a pugilist became evident as he found himself becoming target practice for the adept kickboxer.
In the second round, the former K-1 super lightweight champion showcased his composure and strategic acumen, carefully picking his shots and varying his attacks between the head and body.
Pacquiao, boxing’s only eight-division world champion, known for his explosive speed and power, found it perplexing to mount a consistent offense.
Anpo’s perfectly-timed counters kept him on the defensive.
As the clash entered the third and final round, Pacquiao went for broke, attempting to overwhelm Anpo with aggressive combinations.
(C) Wendell Alinea
However, Anpo remained unfazed, catching “Pac-Man” with a crisp overhand right that momentarily staggered the Filipino boxing legend.
Sensing an opportunity, Anpo continued to press the action, backing Pacquiao off with well-placed body shots.
In the closing moments of the bout, both men engaged in a spirited exchange of heavy blows to the delight of the crowd.
Despite Anpo’s commendable performance, no judges were assigned to score the exhibition.
Given that it was contested under “specialized rules,” it ended in an automatic draw.