The legendary Manny Pacquiao, defeated Juan Manuel Marquez, Saturday night at the MGM Grand, in a very close controversial fight.

It was the 15th straight win for Pacquiao, who earned a minimum of $22 million while improving his record to 54-3-2. Marquez, who earned $5 million, fell to 52-6-1.

This was the third bout between the two boxers. The first bout seven years ago at 125 pounds (57 kilograms) was a draw, and Pacquiao won a split decision in their second bout in 2008 at 130 pounds (59 kilograms).

“When the final bell rang, 12 rounds of furious fighting complete, Juan Manuel Marquez confidently lifted his right fist high into the air, as if he was saying: “I did it, I did it,”  turned to the ringside crowd and offered a knowing wink through an eye nearly swollen shut.

Standing in front of him at that very moment, his opponent, Manny Pacquiao, let his head sag as he turned to walk to his corner. Seconds later Marquez was carried around the ring on the shoulders of two of his corner men. Pacquiao was on his knees in prayer.

Somehow, someway, Pacquiao wound up with the majority decision, 116-112, 115-113, 114-114, a result that will be doubted and debated forever.”

Image by audiovisualjunkie via Flickr

Related articles

• Pacquiao escapes with decision over Marquez (sportsillustrated.cnn.com)