Jimuel Pacquiao scores 1st win with 2nd-round KO of Darrick Gates

Emmanuel “Jimuel” Pacquiao Jr. finally entered the win column and did so in emphatic fashion.

 

 

 

 

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The 25-year-old son of boxing legend Manny Pacquiao knocked out Darrick Gates in the second round of their lightweight bout on Saturday (Philippine time) at the Pechanga Resort Casino in Temecula, California.

Emannuel Pacquiao JR STOPS Darrick Gates to pick up the first win of his pro career ???????? pic.twitter.com/3JFQb9w9YM

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After a tentative opening round, Pacquiao Jr. began to find his rhythm in the second.

The Filipino prospect ripped a body shot that sent Gates to his knees midway through the round. The 36-year-old former MMA fighter managed to beat the 10-count, but was clearly drained from the damage.

Sensing the finish, Pacquiao Jr. returned to the body. Another well-placed shot to the midsection sent the American crumbling once more. This time, Gates struggled to get back on his feet, prompting the referee to wave off the contest.

 

 

 

 

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With the victory, Pacquiao Jr. improved his professional record to 1-0-1, while Gates remained winless. His debut bout against fellow newcomer Brendan Lally last November ended in a majority draw.

—JKC, GMA News