Pacquiao vs. Bradley Results: Desert Storm's Victory Will Jump Start His Career

The WBO welterweight title firmly strapped around Tim Bradley's waist will push his career into new and exciting depths.

Desert Storm didn't deserve Saturday night's victory, but it definitely sets his career on a new arc. He's still undefeated, holds a new title and has bumped himself further along boxing's pecking order.

Let's take a look at how Bradley jump started his career and what it could mean further along the line.

Championship Belt Equals Publicity

Before fighting Manny Pacquiao, Bradley's marquee victories were against Junior Witter, Kendall Holt, Devon Alexander and an over-the-hill Joel Casamayor.

None of these fighters come close to matching Pac-Man's sterling reputation.

Hopping in the ring with one of boxing's biggest headliners would have increased fans' awareness of Bradley by itself. Winning one of boxing's most controversial decisions of all time enhances that all-important exposure.

The controversy is mostly a bad thing, but it does give fans something to attach to Bradley's name from now on. They will remember his undeserved victory first, but maybe they will also remember the brilliant glimpses at an up-and-coming contender.

The WBO belt provides Bradley with a larger reputation and a memorable fight in the MGM Grand. In a sport that covets individual popularity, these points are crucial.

All titleholders have substantial standing. This newly-acquired championship just kicked Bradley's future into overdrive.

Where Will Bradley Go From Here?

Well, we already know a rematch is on the horizon. Other than that, one can only imagine the new direction Bradley's career will head in.

Let's assume Bradley loses to Pac-Man in their November rematch. That gives the belt back to Pacquiao, and it knocks Bradley down a few rungs on boxing's ladder.

Pacquiao will challenge Floyd Mayweather, or retire, if he claims the WBO title again. That puts Bradley in a very familiar situation. He would be one of the top welterweight contenders.

Upsetting Pacquiao again in November would create a completely different story.

Two victories over the No. 2 pound-for-pound fighter would automatically propel Bradley into Mayweather conversations. He would definitely deserve a shot at the world's best fighter at that point.

Bradley's rise has been anticipated. He is 29-0 and has held championship belts in two different weight classes. Saturday night's victory over Pacquiao simply expedites any menial processes along the way.

November's rematch will determine the future of Bradley's fighting career as well, but Saturday night got the ball rolling in the right direction.