Manny Pacquiao Still Blaming Leg Cramps For Ugas Loss Manny Pacquiao continues to cite leg cramps as the primary reason for his defeat against Yordenis Ugas in 2021, describing an unusual pre-fight routine as the catalyst for his inability to perform at his usual level. The explanation has resurfaced in recent discussions, though many observers argue that the fight highlighted the challenges of an aging legend facing a younger, stronger opponent with precise timing and discipline. Pacquiao, then 42 years and eight months old, admitted the issue began before the fight even started, attributing his cramping to a new massage machine routine that left him physically compromised during the bout. Speaking to Inside the Ring, Pacquiao detailed the circumstances of the loss, stating, “For the Ugas fight, we did a routine that we did not usually do before a fight. That’s what happened to me, cramping in both legs. Before the fight, we did the massage machine. In the fight, I was cramping and could not move. It was the first time in my career that happened.” The fighter emphasized that the cramps were an unprecedented occurrence, despite his extensive experience in the ring. However, critics argue that the narrative overlooks the broader tactical and physical realities of the fight, which saw Pacquiao struggling to maintain his usual movement and positioning. The fight itself was a stark contrast between two fighters at different stages of their careers. Ugas, then 35 years old, was naturally larger at welterweight and demonstrated remarkable stamina, landing clean right hands throughout the contest. Pacquiao, despite flashes of hand speed and effort, found himself unable to close distance consistently or sustain exchanges as he once could.#boxing #manny_pacquiao #yordenis_ugas #inside_the_ring #massage_machine
