Manny Pacquiao has spoken about the factors that contributed to his loss against Yordenis Ugas, a defeat that preceded his retirement from boxing.
The Filipino fighter suggests that a change in his pre-fight routine played a significant role in the outcome.
Pacquiao’s Preparation for Ugas Fight
Pacquiao believes his preparation for the Ugas fight was not ideal. He claims they did a routine that they did not usually do before a fight.
According to Pacquiao, this change led to an unexpected issue during the bout. “[For] the Ugas fight, we did a routine that we did not usually do before [a] fight. That’s what happened to me – cramping in both legs.
“Before the fight, we did the massage machine. In the fight, I was cramping, could not move. [It was] the first time in my career [that happened].”
The Ugas Defeat
Prior to the Ugas fight, Pacquiao was considered a leading fighter at 147lbs. He had secured points victories over Keith Thurman and Adrien Broner, defending his WBA world title.
Following his victory over Thurman, Pacquiao experienced over two years of inactivity. Upon his return, he defended his title against Yordenis Ugas.
Ugas, who many believed had defeated Shawn Porter, proved to be a tough opponent for Pacquiao. Ugas won by margins of 115-113 and 116-112, twice, on the judges’ scorecards.
Life After Retirement and Future Plans
Following his loss to Ugas, Pacquiao retired from the sport. Ugas then faced Errol Spence Jr, suffering a 10th-round stoppage defeat.
Pacquiao was involved in a couple exhibition matches, before returning to the sport and boxing to a draw against then-WBC world welterweight champion Mario Barrios last July.
Pacquiao is scheduled to face Floyd Mayweather in a rematch this September, if all goes to plan.