Pacquiao Vs. Margarito: Who Won? The Full Story

The Pacquiao vs. Margarito fight is one that boxing fans remember vividly. It was a clash of styles, a battle of wills, and a testament to the enduring legacy of both fighters. So, let's dive into the details and answer the burning question: Who won?

The Lead-Up to the Fight

Before we get into the specifics of the fight, it's important to understand the context. Manny Pacquiao, already a legend, was looking to further solidify his place in boxing history. Known for his incredible speed, power, and relentless aggression, Pacquiao had already conquered multiple weight divisions, a feat rarely seen in the sport. His journey from a poverty-stricken background to becoming a global icon was nothing short of inspirational.

On the other side, Antonio Margarito was a formidable opponent with a reputation for toughness and a high work rate. Margarito's aggressive style and ability to wear down opponents made him a dangerous challenge for anyone. However, he was also coming off a controversial period, having been suspended for using illegal hand wraps in a previous fight. This controversy added an extra layer of intrigue to the matchup.

The fight was scheduled for November 13, 2010, at Cowboys Stadium in Arlington, Texas. The venue itself was significant, holding a massive crowd and adding to the spectacle of the event. Both fighters had a lot to prove, and the stage was set for an unforgettable night.

The anticipation was palpable in the weeks leading up to the fight. Pacquiao, trained by the legendary Freddie Roach, was in peak condition, his training regimen meticulously designed to exploit Margarito's weaknesses. Roach emphasized speed and movement, knowing that Pacquiao's agility would be a key advantage. Margarito, meanwhile, focused on his strength and endurance, preparing to withstand Pacquiao's onslaught and impose his will on the fight.

The Fight Itself

From the opening bell, it was clear that Pacquiao was the faster and more mobile fighter. He darted in and out, landing quick combinations and frustrating Margarito's attempts to corner him. Pacquiao's hand speed was simply too much for Margarito to handle, and he repeatedly tagged the Mexican fighter with stinging blows. Pacquiao's strategy was evident: use his speed and angles to control the fight and avoid getting caught in a prolonged slugfest.

Margarito, however, was as tough as advertised. He absorbed a tremendous amount of punishment, showing incredible resilience and a willingness to keep coming forward. Despite being outgunned, Margarito never stopped trying to impose his size and strength on Pacquiao. He landed some solid shots of his own, particularly to Pacquiao's body, but they were few and far between.

As the fight wore on, Pacquiao's dominance became more pronounced. He continued to pepper Margarito with punches, his accuracy and power taking a visible toll. Margarito's face became increasingly swollen and battered, but he refused to go down. His unyielding toughness was on full display, earning him the respect of fans and observers alike.

By the later rounds, it was clear that Margarito was in serious trouble. His right eye was almost completely closed, and he was absorbing a tremendous amount of punishment. Pacquiao, sensing the opportunity to finish the fight, stepped up his attack, unleashing a barrage of punches that had Margarito reeling. The referee kept a close eye on the action, seemingly on the verge of stopping the fight.

In the eleventh round, Pacquiao seemed to ease off, showing concern for Margarito's well-being. He looked at the referee, as if asking him to stop the fight, but the referee allowed it to continue. Margarito, despite being badly beaten, continued to fight back, showing incredible heart and determination. This display of courage further cemented his reputation as a warrior.

The Result: Who Won?

After twelve grueling rounds, the fight went to the judges' scorecards. The verdict was unanimous: Manny Pacquiao won by unanimous decision. The scores were 120-108, 119-109, and 118-110, all in favor of Pacquiao. There was no doubt that Pacquiao had won the fight decisively, showcasing his superior skill and athleticism.

The Aftermath

Following the fight, Margarito was taken to the hospital, where he was diagnosed with a fractured orbital bone. The extent of the damage to his eye was severe, and it raised questions about whether the fight should have been stopped earlier. Some critics argued that the referee should have intervened to protect Margarito from further harm, while others praised Margarito's toughness and refusal to quit.

Pacquiao, on the other hand, was gracious in victory, praising Margarito's toughness and acknowledging his fighting spirit. He expressed concern for Margarito's well-being and wished him a speedy recovery. Pacquiao's sportsmanship was evident, further solidifying his reputation as a class act both inside and outside the ring.

The victory over Margarito added another impressive achievement to Pacquiao's already stellar resume. He captured the vacant WBC super welterweight title, becoming an eight-division world champion, an unprecedented feat in boxing history. This accomplishment cemented his status as one of the greatest fighters of all time.

The Impact on Their Careers

The fight had a significant impact on both fighters' careers. For Pacquiao, it was another step towards cementing his legacy as an all-time great. He continued to fight at the highest level for several more years, facing top opponents and adding to his list of accomplishments. His impact on boxing is undeniable, inspiring countless fighters and fans around the world.

Margarito's career, however, took a different turn after the fight. The injuries he sustained against Pacquiao were severe, and they affected his performance in subsequent bouts. While he continued to fight for a few more years, he was never quite the same fighter he once was. The fight with Pacquiao undoubtedly took a toll on his body and his career.

Why This Fight Matters

The Pacquiao vs. Margarito fight is more than just a boxing match; it's a story of contrasting styles, unwavering determination, and the enduring spirit of competition. It highlights the incredible skill and athleticism of Manny Pacquiao, as well as the toughness and resilience of Antonio Margarito. The fight serves as a reminder of the physical and mental demands of boxing, and the sacrifices that fighters make in pursuit of their dreams.

Moreover, the fight raises important questions about fighter safety and the responsibilities of referees and ringside physicians. The debate over whether the fight should have been stopped earlier underscores the challenges of balancing the desire to protect fighters with respecting their will to continue fighting. This ethical dilemma is a constant presence in the sport of boxing.

In conclusion, the Pacquiao vs. Margarito fight was a memorable event that showcased the best and worst aspects of boxing. It was a testament to the skill and courage of both fighters, but it also raised concerns about fighter safety. While Manny Pacquiao emerged victorious, both fighters left an indelible mark on the sport.

Final Thoughts

So, to definitively answer the question, Manny Pacquiao won the fight against Antonio Margarito by unanimous decision. But beyond the win, the fight showcased the heart of a champion in Pacquiao and the incredible resilience of Margarito. It's a fight that boxing enthusiasts will continue to discuss and analyze for years to come, a true testament to the enduring allure of the sweet science. Guys, what are your thoughts on this legendary match? Who did you think would win beforehand, and did the fight play out as you expected? Let's discuss in the comments below!