Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao vs. Rukiya Anpo at Super RIZIN 3 was an exhibition boxing matchup that brought together two distinct fighting styles and backgrounds.
Manny Pacquiao, 45, the legendary Filipino boxer known for his speed, power, and eight-division world champion status, faced off against Rukiya Anpo, a 28-year-old notable Japanese kickboxer and MMA fighter.
In this fight, Pacquiao would bring his world-renowned boxing skills, including his lightning-fast punches and aggressive fighting style. His experience in the ring and his ability would be his strengths. Anpo, on the other hand, would rely on his striking skills from kickboxing and his mixed martial arts experience, providing a versatile and unpredictable challenge for Pacquiao, which showed in the fight.
Anpo, the much younger man, gave Pacquiao trouble in the three round exhibition bout. He was taller at 6 foot tall, and much bigger than the 5 foot 5 inches tall Pacquiao.
The age coupled with the size and reach advantage is what made it very difficult for Pacquiao to close the distance. Anpo was too fast, too youthful and very difficult for Pacquiao to time.
Years ago when Pacquiao was in his prime he had no trouble fighting much taller opponents because his feet were so quick, but father time seems to have caught up with the Filipino southpaw and he looked his age in the fight.
Pacquiao’s traditional boxing precision wasn’t there versus Anpo. Fans enjoyed the fight because it was exciting back and forth action but it was also a shell of Pacquiao in the ring. The fight ended in a DRAW, and both fighters showing signs of respect.
Watch the entire fight below and judge for yourself if the Pacman should continue fighting or not.
