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Eight-division world champion Manny Pacquiao had his eyes on the lightweight title fight between George Kambosos Jr, and Teofimo Lopez, that went in favor of ‘Ferocious’ after a 12-round slugfest. Despite being dubbed the underdog, Kambosos Jr. shook everyone with his flawless display. And although he got clipped a few times, the Australian star found a way to win.

Still undefeated, George Kambosos Jr. (20-0) is now the unified world lightweight champion. The boxing world has already showered him with praises and call-outs. It’s clearly Kambosos Jr’s moment and his former sparring partner, Manny Pacquiao, didn’t miss applauding.

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The Philippine legend took to Twitter after the fight and recalled his old sparring days with Kambosos Jr. ‘Pac-Man’ had prepared with George Kambosos Jr. for several of his fights.

Recalling them, he wrote, “Congratulations to my friend, George Kambosos Jr on an epic win! You helped me in so many of my past fights, I hope our hundreds of rounds of sparring helped you in some way tonight. I’m proud of you.”

42-year-old Manny Pacquiao retired after losing to WBA champion Yordenis Ugas in a full-length contest. As he will reportedly run for the Presidential election in his home country, we have seen the last of Pacquiao in professional boxing.

Well, it’s just the beginning for his former sparring partner George Kambosos Jr. Having beaten one of the best lightweights of the time, the newly crowned champion can expect several more blockbusters ahead.

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Can George Kambosos Jr. do what Manny Pacquiao did?

28-year-old Kambosos Jr. is still at the early stage of his career and far from what Manny Pacquiao has achieved in over 20 years of pro-boxing. However, the Australian star is on the right track and has proven his worth as a top-tier pugilist. A win against Lopez has put him in the main conversation, and all of a sudden, everyone wants to have a crack at him.

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Undefeated, former WBC Interim lightweight champion, Ryan Garcia has desired to face George Kambosos Jr. on his returning bout. Nevertheless, Garcia is no longer a mandatory challenger, and it’s Kambosos Jr. who will make the calls from his end.

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