Manny Pacquiao has new opponent for RIZIN boxing exhibition
Boxing legend Manny Pacquiao will now face former K-1 champion Rukiya Anpo in a three-round 152-pound boxing exhibition at Super RIZIN 3, which goes down July 28 in Saitama, Japan.
The promotion did not reveal why Pacquiao’s original opponent, RIZIN featherweight champion Chihiro Suzuki, withdrew from the match.
Pacquiao won 62 of 72 professional boxing matches, claiming and defending titles in multiple weight classes, and has mentioned the possibility of competing inside the RIZIN ring for many years.
Anpo, 0-1 in MMA, holds a record of 27-8-1 as a professional kickboxer, scoring knockouts in 14 of his victories, winning and defending the K-1 super lightweight championship.
“I heard that my opponent has changed, but of course, no problem,” Pacquiao stated in a release. “I was looking forward to facing Chihiro Suzuki, especially after seeing his fearless attitude at Yoyogi the other day. But, well, if it’s due to injury, it can’t be helped. Injuries are part of being a fighter, so please convey my best wishes to Chihiro for a speedy recovery.
“To Rukiya Anpo, who has stepped up as my new opponent, I want to thank you for not being afraid to challenge me. I will show you that boxing is noble, fantastic, and above all, very challenging. I look forward to July 28th.”
Super RIZIN 3 will be headlined by a featherweight showdown between Mikuru Asakura and Ren Hiramoto, and the winner could earn a shot at Suzuki for the 145-pound title. BKFC flyweight titleholder John Dodson is scheduled to face Takaki Soya in a bare-knuckle boxing match.