By John F. McKenna (McJack): The World Boxing Organization (WBO), one of the main sanctioning bodies in boxing, will investigate the June 9 match between former WBO welterweight champion Manny Pacquiao (54-4-2, 38 KO’s) and new champion Timothy Bradley (29-0-1 NC, 12 KO’s).

Bradley was awarded the decision in a fight in which he was clearly dominated by Pacquiao. The unpopular decision unleashed an ongoing firestorm in the boxing world.

In an article posted by RGJ.com WBO President Francisco “Paco” Valcarcel issued a statement released Wednesday which said:

“The WBO’s championship committee will review video of the fight with ‘five recognized international judges’ and will make a recommendation.”

Most of the reporters seated at ringside thought Pacquiao was the easy winner in a bout that most felt was not even close. As expected too, there has been a huge public outcry from the boxing fans who either paid to see the fight live or on Pay Per View (PPV). An Associated Press ringside observer had the fight 117 – 111 in Pacquiao’s favor. HBO commentators Manuel Steward, Jim Lampley, Max Kellerman and Harold Ledderman all had Manny winning by a wide margin.

Top Rank CEO Bob Arum who has promoted thousands of boxing matches over a span covering more than four decades was visibly upset at the decision and said it was one of the worst he had ever seen.

Arum was quoted by RGL.com saying:

“It puts boxing in a very horrible light. I’m looking for the sport to do damage control, and the only way you can do damage control is if you do a full and complete investigation.”

Arum submitted a request for an investigation to the Nevada State Attorney General’s office on Monday and asked for an inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the fight.
Nevada U.S. Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, the senior senator from Nevada has also asked for a thorough investigation.

Arum further stated that as part of the investigation it should be looked into as how the judges could have been so far off.

It has been rumored that there was a shift to Bradley in the betting in the final hours before the fight. And while at this point there are only rumors surrounding the decision giving Bradley the WBO welterweight title, the uproar following the fight demands that every aspect of the match be gone over with a fine tooth comb.