Manny Pacquiao Says He's Open to Jeff Horn Rematch After Controversial Loss
Manny Pacquiao surrendered his WBO welterweight title to Jeff Horn in a controversial unanimous decision Saturday night, but he's already thinking about a rematch.
According to Ten Eyewitness News in Australia, Pacquiao confirmed he will exercise his rematch clause and return to Australia for a second fight against Horn later in the year.
"It’s an immediate rematch clause," Horn promoter Dean Lonergan told the Courier-Mail's Grantlee Kieza in April.
"If Jeff wins the world title Manny wants it back straight away. Brisbane will be the focus of the boxing world on July 2 and with Manny’s promoter, Bob Arum, now involved Queensland is set to host some huge fights over the next few years."
Pacquiao has every right to want a rematch, especially after the way the fight was scored.
The more efficient and poised fighter throughout, Pacquiao landed more punches than Horn in 11 of the right's 12 rounds and posted a 182-92 advantage in terms of total connections, per CompuBox.
A rematch may not draw the same buzz since Horn emerged victorious in divisive fashion, but Pacquiao should be armed with plenty of motivation to try to avenge the loss should he ultimately exercise his right to throw down in a sequel.
