Manny Pacquiao Sets Sights on Olympic Glory in Paris, Aims for Boxing Medal Shot
Filipino boxing legend Manny Pacquiao, who retired earlier this year, is ready to embark on a new chapter in his storied career. Pacquiao, an eight-division world champion, is now eyeing an Olympic medal in the upcoming Paris Games. The President of the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC), Abraham Bambol Tolentino, confirmed that Pacquiao’s camp has expressed a desire for the legendary fighter to compete in the Olympics.
Although Pacquiao will not be able to participate in the Asian Games next month due to the age limit of 40 for all sports, he has the opportunity to qualify for the Paris Olympics through two qualifying tournaments scheduled in 2024. Additionally, Pacquiao could secure a place under the Universality rule, which allows the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to grant entry to athletes who don’t meet the usual qualification criteria. However, there are limited spots available under the Universality rule—only nine in total, with five for women and four for men.
Pacquiao’s close aide has confirmed his willingness to compete in the Olympics, and they have already reached out to Tolentino. The Association of Boxing Alliances in the Philippines (ABAP), led by chairman Ricky Vargas, has also expressed support for Pacquiao’s Olympic aspirations and pledged to assist him in the qualification process.
One crucial consideration for Pacquiao is determining which weight category to compete in. The Paris boxing program offers two choices: 63.50 kilograms or 71 kilograms. Pacquiao, who currently weighs 66 kilograms, will need to make a decision that best suits his physical capabilities and chances of success.
In recent years, professional boxers have been allowed to enter the Olympics, opening the door for Pacquiao to pursue this unique opportunity. In the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, 43 out of 186 boxers were professionals, including Eumir Felix Marcial, who won a bronze medal in the middleweight division. Marcial, who had previously secured his first professional victory, opted to delay his next bout to focus on his Olympic journey.
As Pacquiao sets his sights on the Olympic stage, he aims to defy expectations once again and add another remarkable achievement to his legendary career. With the support of the ABAP and the guidance of the POC, Pacquiao will pursue his Olympic dreams, hoping to inspire a new generation of athletes with his tenacity and skill.
It remains to be seen whether Pacquiao will secure a spot in the Paris Olympics, but his ambition and determination will undoubtedly fuel his pursuit of Olympic glory. Boxing enthusiasts around the world eagerly await the outcome as Pacquiao pens another chapter in his remarkable journey.
