By Flinster Austin
Published on 2024-02-19 09:48:10
Manny Pacquiao, a legendary figure in the world of boxing, expressed his disappointment after being denied the opportunity to compete in the upcoming Paris Olympic Games. The 45-year-old, who retired from boxing in 2021 and had previously expressed interest in running for president, revealed that the International Olympic Committee (IOC) had rejected a special request for him to take part in the games. The decision was attributed to the IOC’s age limit of 40 for Olympic boxers. Despite his disappointment, Pacquiao gracefully accepted the ruling, acknowledging and respecting the age-limit rules set by the IOC.
In a statement following the announcement, Pacquiao expressed his understanding of the situation and assured his continued support for Filipino athletes participating in the Olympics. Having won world titles at eight different weights during his illustrious professional boxing career spanning over a quarter of a century, Pacquiao’s contribution to the sport has left an indelible mark. The Philippines had sought a “universality place” for Pacquiao, a designation typically reserved for athletes from smaller countries who have difficulty securing slots through regular qualification processes. However, the IOC’s decision to deny Pacquiao this opportunity was met with disappointment by many, including Philippine Olympic Committee president Abraham Tolentino, who lamented the missed potential for a “sure podium or first ever gold” for the country in Olympic boxing.
Despite this setback, Pacquiao reassured his fans that he has no intention of fading into the background. Even in retirement, he remains committed to bringing pride and honor to his country inside the boxing ring in the future. As evidence of his continued dedication to the sport, it was revealed that he is scheduled to face off against Thai kickboxer Buakaw Banchamek in an exhibition match on April 20 in Bangkok. The match, which will be contested under international boxing rules, showcases Pacquiao’s ongoing involvement in the sport and his desire to continue competing at a high level.
Pacquiao’s perseverance and unwavering commitment to his craft have solidified his status as a beloved figure in the sports world. Despite the disappointment of not being able to compete in the Olympics, his resolve to remain active and continue representing the Philippines with pride is a testament to his enduring legacy. His future endeavors, both inside and outside the boxing ring, are sure to captivate and inspire fans around the world. Although his Olympic dreams may have been dashed, Manny Pacquiao’s influence and impact in the world of sports continue to resonate, ensuring that his legacy remains as vibrant as ever.
