Manny Pacquiao defeats WBC Lightweight titleholder David Diaz of the US at the Mandalay Bay Events Center on June 28, 2008 in Las Vegas, Nevada. AFP/CHRIS COZZONE

Philippine boxing icon Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao made history, knocking out WBC lightweight champion David Diaz in the 9th round Saturday in Las Vegas to become the first Asian to hold four different titles at different weights and the first Filipino to hold the crown.

After working his right jab effectively, Pacquiao called on an old favorite to finally end the match. Snapping Diaz’s head with a right jab, Pacquiao unleashed a right jab before uncorking his pet left hand, sending the now former champ, who never saw the killer blow coming, crashing at the 2:24 mark of the ninth round.

The Mandalay Bay Events Center erupted in cheers as Michael Buffer announced the new champion. Supporters rushed the ring as television interviewers sought out Pacquiao.

Vic Drakulich waved off the fight after checking on Diaz, who Pacquiao approached even as he lay on the floor.

Pacquiao got the surprise of his life after the match when the NBA champions Boston Celtics visited him at the dugout. Pacquiao had predicted the Celtics to win in six games and the world champions repaid that faith by watching the match and cheering for him.

“I’m his No. 1 fan,” Kevin Garnett, standing beside Pacquiao, said.

With Garnett were Paul Pierce and Ray Allen, two members of the Big Three, and the likes of Rajon Rondo and Sam Cassell.

Pacquiao connects with a right against a bloodied WBC Lightweight titleholder David Diaz of the United States, making history by becoming the first Asian to hold four titles at different weight divisions and the first Filipino to hold the Lightweight crown. AFP PHOTO

Pacquiao floors David Diaz at 2:24 of the ninth round to end the fight, giving the southpaw his fourth crown in as many weight divisions. Pacquiao (47-3-2, 35 KOs) used his quickness and superior boxing skills to dominate the bigger Diaz who suffered just the second loss of his career. AFP PHOTO

Pacquiao knocks down David Diaz en route to winning the WBC Lightweight title. AFP PHOTO

Pacquiao stands over the U.S.’s David Diaz after his ninth-round knockout in Las Vegas. Pacquiao’s knockout victory was his 35th.