Earlier in 2024, the International Olympic Committee denied Manny Pacquiao’s request to take part in the upcoming Paris Olympics. Since the ‘PacMan’ has crossed the age limit criteria for the prestigious quadrennial event, he was ineligible to participate this year. However, after a fellow Filipino boxer respectfully challenged him, it seems age is just a number for Pacquiao.
Eduard Folayang, who is a two-time ONE Lightweight World Champion, expressed his desire to face the legendary fellow compatriot in the boxing ring. While speaking to Tiebreaker Times, the 40-year-old said,
“When you talk about a Filipino athlete, his name is immediately the first one that comes to mind. Whether it’s a Filipino or an individual from another country, Manny Pacquiao is always the topic of conversation.”
“He is what we can call the gold standard of sports here in the Philippines. If given the opportunity, why would I refuse? That would be an honor,” Folayang said.
Folayang described his potential match with the ‘PacMan’ as “interesting and intriguing.” However, the 40-year-old’s priority is still MMA fighting.
Eduardo Folayang describes his potential match with Manny Pacquiao
It has been almost three years since Manny Pacquiao stepped foot inside the boxing ring. Despite the denial of the 45-year-old’s plea to participate in the Paris Olympics, his fellow Filipino boxer calls him out and states that it’s the aim of combat sports.
“At the end of the day, that’s one of the goals of combat sports — to bring people together and provide them with the best possible matchups.”
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Eduardo Folayang is undoubtedly correct. After all, two iconic Filipino boxers facing each other in the boxing ring – it’s a dream matchup for the fans. Since Manny Pacquiao is already gearing up for a bout against Mario Barrios, will the ‘PacMan’ accept Folayang’s challenge? Only time can tell.
