Manny Pacquiao rose from extreme poverty to become a global boxing icon. He fought his way out of the streets of the Philippines to win world titles in eight different weight divisions. Moreover, he conquered the worlds of politics, basketball, and acting while still knocking out opponents. Fans love him not just for his speed, but for his humility and generosity outside the ring. Prepare to step into the ring with the Pac-Man.
Manny Pacquiao
Manny Pacquiao worked as a baker before he became a professional boxer. He sold donuts and bread on the streets to help his mother. Consequently, this early job taught him the value of hard work.
Remarkably, he remains the only boxer to win world titles in eight different weight divisions. He started as a flyweight and climbed to light middleweight. Thus, Manny Pacquiao defied physics by carrying his speed up.
He actually played professional basketball in the Philippines while still boxing. Specifically, he served as a playing coach for the Kia Sorento team. Although critics doubted him, he scored points in professional games.
Generously, he built houses for thousands of poor families in his hometown. He bought land and constructed homes using his own earnings. Therefore, locals view him as a hero beyond sports.
Manny Pacquiao released several music albums in his home country. In fact, his cover of “Sometimes When We Touch” became a surprise hit. Furthermore, he often sings during his ring entrances.
He served as a Senator in the Philippines for six years. After conquering sports, he turned his attention to lawmaking to help people in need. Eventually, he even ran for President of the Philippines.
Interestingly, he named his dog “Pacman” after his own famous boxing nickname. The Jack Russell Terrier ran alongside him during training camps. Sadly, the beloved pet passed away, leaving him heartbroken.
He ran away from home because his father ate his dog. Tragically, his father cooked the family pet during a desperate time. Therefore, a heartbroken Manny Pacquiao left to live on the streets.
He holds the rank of Colonel in the Philippine Army Reserve Force. He joined the military reserve early in his career. Later, the army promoted him through the ranks as he gained fame.
Amazingly, he fought professionally in four different decades. He started in the 1990s and continued fighting into the 2020s. This longevity remains almost unheard of in the brutal sport of boxing.
He carried the Philippine flag at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Even though he did not compete, the delegation chose him as the standard-bearer. Thus, he led the athletes during the opening ceremony.
Surprisingly, he acts in movies when he isn’t training for a fight. He has starred in action films and comedies in the Philippines. For instance, he played a superhero named “Wapakman.”
He gives away millions of dollars after every major fight. Reportedly, he hands out cash to people lining up outside his home. Consequently, Manny Pacquiao often struggles to keep the money he earns.
He has a deeper voice than most people realize when speaking Tagalog. Fans often hear his higher-pitched English in interviews. However, his natural speaking voice sounds much lower and more authoritative.
Finally, he eats boiled bananas to stay energized during training. He prefers traditional Filipino food over fancy sports supplements. Therefore, his diet remains simple and grounded in his roots.
