Manny Pacquiao, the revered eight-division boxing world champion hailing from the Philippines, has his sights set on a remarkable comeback on the international stage at the 2024 Paris Olympics. The announcement, made by Sean Gibbons, the president of MP Promotions, has sent ripples of excitement through the sports world and Pacquiao’s legion of fans.
In an unprecedented move, professional boxers were permitted to participate in the Olympics starting from 2016, marking a paradigm shift in the landscape of amateur and professional sports. At the age of 44, Pacquiao, a boxing icon, is no stranger to breaking boundaries. His last official bout was in 2021, a welterweight title match against Yordenis Ugás, which concluded with a loss. However, Pacquiao’s spirit remains unbroken as evidenced by his victory against YouTuber DK Yoo in a 2022 exhibition match held in South Korea.
Pacquiao’s journey from humble beginnings to becoming a household name is the stuff of legends. Emerging as a teenager, he ventured into professional boxing to provide for his family. In 2001, a momentous partnership with the legendary trainer Freddie Roach transformed him into an extraordinary fighter, etching his name into the annals of boxing history.
Octuple World Champion Manny Pacquiao Sets Sights on Paris Olympics 2024 Return
The allure of the Olympics, the pinnacle of global sporting events, has never waned for Pacquiao. Despite his illustrious professional career boasting a record of 62 wins, 8 losses, and 2 draws, the absence of high-level international amateur competition has been a lingering void. Abraham Tolentino, president of the Philippines Olympic Committee, has warmly embraced Pacquiao’s aspiration, expressing a welcoming attitude towards his potential inclusion in the national team.
Pacquiao’s connection with the Philippines runs deep; his matches have united the nation, even prompting a ceasefire for seven hours during his super featherweight title fight against Juan Manuel Márquez in 2008. Beyond the boxing ring, Pacquiao’s political endeavors, including serving in the Philippines senate from 2016 to 2022 and participating in a presidential election, have solidified his status as a beloved figure.
As the Philippines Olympic Committee explores pathways for Pacquiao’s qualification, anticipation builds for his potential appearance as one of the 124 male boxers eligible for the Games. The prospect of his participation in an Olympic qualifying tournament in early 2024 or securing a Universality Place adds a layer of intrigue to his Olympic odyssey.