Mexican great Erik Morales edged out Filipino sensation Manny Pacquaio with a unanimous points decision in Las Vegas.
Although no official world titles were at stake in this super-featherweight contest, the modern-day superstars drew a sell-out crowd of 14,623 at the MGM Grand and did not disappoint.
And it was Morales, who lost the third fight of his epic trilogy with Marco Antonio Barrera just four months ago, who came out on top by scores of 115-113 on all three of the judges' cards.
After a wild first round, Morales used the experience gained in 20 world title fights to take control of the contest behind his long jab and solid rights.
Pacquaio, who hit the big time after his stunning 11th-round stoppage of the then number one featherweight Barrera 16 months ago, suffered a horrific cut over his right eye in round five.
But he rallied to push Morales all the way over the second half of the contest, both fighters landing with some big shots.
However, 'El Terrible' Morales had done just enough to preserve his record of having only been beaten by Barrera in his 48 professional fights.
