Manny Pacquiao vs Hector Velazquez

On September 10, 2005, Manny Pacquiao faced off against Hector Velazquez in a super featherweight boxing match for the vacant WBC International Super Featherweight Title. The fight took place at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, California, USA, and was promoted by Top Rank. The event was televised on HBO World Championship Boxing, and both fighters weighed in at 130 lbs.

Pacquiao, who had a record of 39 wins, 3 losses, and 2 draws coming into the fight, was the favorite to win. Velazquez, on the other hand, had a record of 42 wins, 10 losses, and 2 draws, and was considered by many to be a tough opponent.

The fight began with both fighters testing each other out in the ring. Pacquiao was the more aggressive of the two, landing several solid punches to Velazquez's head and body. Velazquez, however, was able to withstand the onslaught and landed a few of his own.

As the fight progressed, Pacquiao's speed and accuracy began to take their toll on Velazquez. In the sixth round, Pacquiao landed a powerful shot that sent Velazquez to the canvas. Velazquez was able to get back up, but Pacquiao continued to press the attack. A short time later, Pacquiao landed another big punch that sent Velazquez down for the second time in the round.

Referee Lou Moret decided to stop the fight, declaring Pacquiao the winner by technical knockout in the sixth round. With the win, Pacquiao captured the vacant WBC International Super Featherweight Title.

According to the official purses, Pacquiao earned $750,000 for the fight, while Velazquez's earnings were not disclosed. This was Pacquiao's first fight in the United States in over a year, and he was eager to prove himself against a tough opponent like Velazquez.

After the fight, Pacquiao expressed his gratitude to his fans and promised to continue working hard to improve his skills. Velazquez, meanwhile, congratulated Pacquiao on his victory and expressed his disappointment at not being able to win the title himself.