FILIPINO icon Manny Pacquiao and Argentine power-puncher Lucas Matthysse both came in under the 147-pound welterweight limit at the official weigh-in for their 12-rounder at the Axiata Arena in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on Sunday (July 15).
Pacquiao, who is chasing his 60th victory as a professional, weighed 146lbs, while Matthysse, who is defending his WBA secondary belt, was three-quarters-of-a-pound heavier. Interestingly, 146lbs is the heaviest Pacquiao has scaled since his fourth meeting with old rival Juan Manuel Marquez back in December 2012.
After winning world titles in six different weight divisions during an incredible career spanning 23-and-a-half years, the end is now in sight for Pacquiao, who turns 40 in December.
The legendary southpaw lost his WBO welterweight crown to the unheralded Jeff Horn 12 months ago in what was a massive upset. In Matthysse, he faces a fighter who is more experienced and respected on the world stage than Horn, although he is no spring chicken himself at nearly 36 years old.
Ahead of his 69th outing, Pacquiao has been training under the guidance of good friend Buboy Fernandez – a fixture in his corner throughout the years – instead of long-time coach Freddie Roach. He is also staging the event himself, rather than working with his usual promoter, Bob Arum of Top Rank.
