Manny Pacquiao stepped onto a podium in Manila and announced his new role as vice president of the International Boxing Association. He spoke with passion about breaking down the barriers that keep talented fighters from poor backgrounds out of the sport. Pacquiao said the IBA will now welcome any boxer who meets the basic requirements, no matter where they train.
Opening Doors for Global Boxers
The IBA has opened applications for the 2025 World Boxing Championship in Dubai. The tournament will run from December 2 to 13 at the Dubai Tennis Stadium. Pacquiao explained that the event will accept fighters from any nation, even those without a national federation. He emphasized that talent, not paperwork, will decide who steps into the ring.
The championship offers a record prize pool of 8.32 million dollars. Winners in each of the 13 weight classes will receive 300,000 dollars. The money will be split equally between the boxer, the trainer, and the supporting federation. Runners up will earn 150,000 dollars, bronze medalists 75,000 dollars, and quarter‑finalists 10,000 dollars. Pacquiao believes this financial boost will change the lives of young athletes around the world.
Pacquiao’s Philanthropy and New Boxing Academy
Beyond his IBA duties, Pacquiao announced plans to expand his foundation worldwide. The Manny Pacquiao Boxing Academy will open first in Dubai. The academy will give underprivileged youth access to training, education, and mentorship. Pacquiao said, “We want to support kids from the ground up, from the first jab to the professional stage.”
Possible Mayweather Rematch
During the press conference Pacquiao also addressed his future in the ring. He confirmed that talks are ongoing for a rematch with Floyd Mayweather Jr. Pacquiao said he feels ready and has no shoulder problems. He added that the fight could happen in Las Vegas and might be streamed on Netflix under the IBA banner. Fans of both legends are eagerly waiting for news.
Pacquiao’s story began in the streets of General Santos. He grew up in a family of six children and survived on one meal a day. He sold cigarettes and worked construction jobs to buy rice. At 14 he started training in a makeshift gym after being inspired by the Buster Douglas upset of Mike Tyson. By 16 he turned professional because he could not afford the costs of an Olympic path. His rise to eight‑division world champion shows why he now fights for others.
IBA Commitment to Inclusion
IBA president Umar Kremlev praised Pacquiao as a symbol of kindness and peace. He promised that any boxer who cannot travel because of finances will receive assistance through a joint program with Pacquiao. The IBA also plans to open more Pacquiao branded academies worldwide to nurture future champions.
The combination of a new inclusive championship, a global academy, and a possible Mayweather showdown creates excitement for the sport. Pacquiao’s leadership may reshape how boxing reaches talent in remote areas. Fans can look forward to a historic event in Dubai and a potential clash of legends later this decade.
Source: Fightnews
