Manny Pacquiao Reflects on Infamous Knockout
In a candid discussion with FightHub TV, boxing icon Manny Pacquiao revisited his infamous knockout defeat to Juan Manuel Marquez in 2012, characterizing the decisive blow as nothing more than “a lucky punch.” This shocking loss, which saw Pacquiao face-plant onto the canvas, has been etched in boxing history, with many regarding it as one of the most remarkable knockouts ever witnessed.
The Fight’s Dramatic Turn
During their fourth and final match, Pacquiao had visibly dominated earlier rounds and even dropped Marquez at one point. However, the fight took a dramatic turn in the sixth round when Marquez delivered a well-timed overhand right that left Pacquiao unconscious, rendering him unable to rise before the referee’s count could commence.
Reflecting on that fateful moment, the 46-year-old Filipino fighter expressed that he felt on the verge of securing a victory. “I thought I was about to finish him in that round, or definitely the next one. But I let my guard down, and he got me with a lucky punch,” he stated.
Legacy and Future Aspirations
The event, staged at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, not only marked the culmination of their intense rivalry but also stands as a highlight in Marquez’s Hall of Fame career while representing a concerning moment for Pacquiao, who has enjoyed a mostly stellar reputation in the sport.
Despite the setback, Pacquiao managed to bounce back with a series of wins and remains determined to chase further glory upon his return to the ring in 2025, when he intends to secure the WBC welterweight title and extend his record as the oldest champion by six years. While some critics argue that the knockout diminished his previously untouchable persona, Pacquiao views it as an integral part of boxing.
More than a decade later, the debate continues whether Marquez’s stunning blow was a stroke of genius or mere fortune. Pacquiao maintains a straightforward view: he simply got caught in a vulnerable moment.
