Boxing icon Manny Pacquiao is embracing his role as the driving force behind the 50th anniversary celebration of the legendary Thrilla in Manila on October 29 at the Araneta Coliseum.
The historic bout between Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier in 1975 went down as one of the greatest fights of all time, with Ali stopping Frazier after 14 grueling rounds to retain his heavyweight crown before a roaring Filipino crowd. Half a century later, the legacy of that night continues to inspire.
“I previously fought here at Araneta and now I am bout to promote a big fight, a world championship, and the celebration of the 50th anniversary of Thrilla in Manila,” Pacquiao said in a press conference held last Wednesday in Quezon City.
“It is an honor, and I am happy that even though I was not alive yet then, I am the one leading this promotion.”
The commemorative card will be headlined by WBC minimumweight world champion Melvin Jerusalem defending his belt against Siyakholwa Kuse, with rising stars such as Carl Jammes Martin and Olympic bronze medalist Eumir Marcial on the undercard.
For Pacquiao, the anniversary event is more than just a tribute to history, but a lifeline for Filipino boxing.
“It is a huge help to our boxers. This is to encourage our boxers because many are losing hope due to a lack of promotions,” Pacquiao said.
“Even if you keep training, but there is no promotion to fight, it would be hard to improve. Boxers learn in the actual fight. This is a rare opportunity.”
—JMB, GMA Integrated News
