Matthysse: I lost to a great fighter

KUALA LUMPUR – For Lucas Matthysse, it’s back to the drawing board.

Although determined to keep the title he won from Tewa Kiram last January, Matthysse did not have the physical tools to match that determination.

He ended up succumbing to Manny Pacquiao in their showdown Sunday at the Axiata Arena here, hitting the canvas three times in the process.

Matthysse, who’s had his share of losses, earlier warned Pacquiao that the Filipino icon has never faced someone like him.

But the truth is, Matthysse has never faced anyone like Pacquiao.

“Fighting Manny Pacquiao (is the most difficult part),” said Matthysse after getting knocked out in the seventh round and relinquishing the WBA welterweight title to a more powerful Pacquiao.

Matthysse (now 39-5, with 36 KOs) had experienced defeat a few times before, to Zab Judah, Devon Alexander, Danny Garcia and Viktor Postol.

But they are nowhere near Pacquiao’s caliber in terms of achievements.

“He’s a great fighter. He’s a great champion. You win some, and you lose some. Today (yesterday) was my turn to lose, but I lost to a great fighter and a great legend in Manny Pacquiao,” added Matthysse, who had to skip the post-fight presser because he was brought to the hospital for a routine checkup for fighters who’ve been knocked out.

“First I would like to rest and go back home. The hard work has been done. The fight has taken

place,” he said.

The 35-year-old pride of Chubut, Argentina also apologized to his countrymen, who could use a morale-boosting win after their football team’s early exit in the ongoing FIFA World Cup

“I’m sorry to Argentina, but I’m fine. Thank you for all the love and support, and we’ll be seeing all my family and friends soon,” Matthysse continued.

“I lost, but I walk away with my head held high.”