The WBA took the belt that Manny Pacquiao won in the ring away from him in January and gave it to Yordenis Ugas.
But on Saturday at T-Mobile Arena, Ugas won the belt fair and square, landing at a far higher percentage than the 42-year-old Filipino senator in what may have been his final fight.
Judges score the bout: 115-113, 116-112 (x2) and the winner by unanimous decision… Yordenis Ugas!
The Cuban celebrates a career-defining night and retains his WBA belt.
Yordenis Ugas wants to unify the welterweight division – specifically with Errol Spence Jr.
He says: “Now the plan is to unify the title at welterweight. Everyone said he was the champion, now they know the real champion.
“(Spence) is the next one on the list that I want to fight but I’m praying he recovers.”
He says: “I’m very excited, but most of all I want to thank Manny Pacquaio for giving me this moment in this ring today.
“I told you I am the champion of the WBA and I showed you tonight.”
Ugas adds: “He’s a tough, great competitor, but I came in here to show that I am the champion of the WBA and a lot of respect for him, but I won the fight.”
What now for the legendary Manny Pacquiao?
Manny Pacquiao has hinted his defeat to Cuba’s Yordenis Ugas could be his final foray into the ring.
The 42-year-old said: “I don’t know,” if I’ll fight again.
“Let me relax and think about it. Final announcement is in October for presidency.
“I want to help my people.”
He added: “I will make a final announcement next month, I know that I am facing a big problem and more difficult work than boxing.”
- hp/picture: screenshot, skysports.uk
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