PHOTO SPECIAL: Manny Pacquiao is beaten by Timothy Bradley

The boxing world has been left stunned by Manny Pacquiao's defeat at the hands of undefeated American boxer Timothy Bradley.

Pacquiao, a national icon in his home country, lost in a split decision on Saturday night in Las Vegas.

In a fight Pacquiao seemed to have in hand, two judges decided otherwise, giving Bradley the decision and ending the Filipino fighter's remarkable seven-year unbeaten run.

Promoter Bob Arum was fuming afterwards and the crowd at the MGM Grand arena booed the result. Pacquiao himself seemed stunned when the decision was announced.

Arum said there would be a November rematch, though he blasted the way the decision went down.

"I've never been as ashamed of the sport of boxing as I am tonight," said Arum, who handles both fighters.

Filipinos have expressed shock and some wept over Pacquiao's defeat.

Large numbers of Filipinos booed and yelled "Manny was cheated" after watching the bout in public parks and gymnasiums throughout the Philippines.

Government librarian Gina Tubo says she wept because she thought Pacquiao won after landing more punches.

The Philippine military congratulated Bradley but praised Pacquiao for his grit, adding "Manny will remain and will always be our champion."