In a highly anticipated exhibition match on July 28, 2024, Filipino boxing legend  Manny Pacquiao faced off against Japanese kickboxing sensation Rukiya Anpo at the Saitama Super Arena in Japan. The event, part of the “Super Rizin 3” series, drew significant attention, attracting a crowd of 48,000 spectators eager to witness Pacquiao’s return to the ring.

Unexpected Matchup: A Change in Opponents

Initially, Pacquiao was slated to fight Chihiro Suzuki. However, Suzuki’s withdrawal due to a broken hand led to Anpo stepping in as a last-minute replacement. Anpo, a formidable kickboxing champion with limited boxing experience, surprised many with his willingness to challenge Pacquiao, one of the greatest boxers of all time.

Round-by-Round Drama Unfolds

Round 1: Feeling Out the Opponent

The opening round saw Pacquiao approach cautiously, sizing up Anpo’s reach and movement. Anpo, leveraging his height and reach advantage, kept Pacquiao at bay with jabs. Despite a few clean shots from Pacquiao, Anpo’s counterattacks, including a notable right hand, demonstrated his adaptability in the boxing ring.

Round 2: Increased Aggression and Exchange

Pacquiao ramped up his aggression in the second round, aiming to close the distance and unleash his trademark combinations. Anpo maintained his composure, using his jab effectively and landing a solid uppercut. The round featured more exchanges, with Pacquiao’s experience and Anpo’s resilience both on display.

Round 3: High Intensity and Close Finish

The final round was the most electrifying, with both fighters engaging in spirited exchanges. Pacquiao showcased his speed and skill, landing a series of combinations. Anpo, not to be outdone, landed a liver shot that momentarily slowed Pacquiao. The round concluded with a thrilling flurry of punches from Pacquiao, met with Anpo’s determined resistance.

Post-Fight Reactions: A Promising Future for Anpo

As per exhibition rules, the fight ended in a draw, with no official scorecards unless a knockout occurred. Pacquiao praised Anpo’s strength and potential, acknowledging his impressive performance despite being relatively new to boxing. The event highlighted Anpo’s potential in boxing, sparking discussions about his future in the sport.

Pacquiao hinted at the possibility of future exhibition matches, indicating that fans might see more of him in action. Anpo’s unexpected and commendable performance against a veteran like Pacquiao has ignited interest in his career trajectory, suggesting that this match could be the start of a new chapter for the Japanese fighter.

Conclusion: A Memorable Night for Boxing and Kickboxing Fans

The Pacquiao-Anpo exhibition match was a thrilling display of skill, resilience, and sportsmanship, captivating fans and reigniting excitement for both boxing and kickboxing. As the crowd dispersed, the conversation buzzed with speculation about what lies ahead for both fighters, leaving the world of combat sports eagerly awaiting their next moves.