Manny Pacquiao reiterates desire to fight in Olympics for Philippines
Manny Pacquiao reportedly is planning a comeback, albeit an unconventional one.
The future Hall of Famer recently reiterated that he wants to compete for the Philippines in the Olympics next year in Paris, when he’ll be 45.
Pacquiao told the Filipino news website Rappler that he wanted to represent his country in international competitions before the start of his professional career but wasn’t selected.
“[I’m] waiting for that and I’m excited about it,” Pacquiao told the outlet. “From the beginning, I went to Manila to be part of the Philippine team, but I wasn’t picked, I was rejected … because they said I was not good.
“My heart and desire is to claim a gold medal in the Olympics.”
Philippine Olympic Committee President Abraham Tolentino said that the age limit to compete in the Asian Games – an Olympic qualifier – is 40. However, Pacquiao reportedly could qualify in tournaments in the first and second quarters of next year.
Pacquiao (62-8-2, 39 KOs) last fought in a sanctioned bout in August 2021, when he lost a decision and his 147-pound title to Yordenis Ugas. He announced his retirement shortly afterward.
He faced MMA fighter DK Yoo in an exhibition last December. And he reportedly will take on Thai Boxing star Buakaw Banchamek in another exhibition early next year.
