Manny Pacquiao Vows To Help His Filipino Successor Become World Champion

Eight-division title holder Manny Pacquiao said he will do everything to help his Filipino successor Mark Magsayo to become a world champion.

Magsayo is an undefeated featherweight contender from Manila, Philippines. At 24, Magsayo already boasts a 20-0 professional record with 14 coming by way of KO. He is now about to take his talents overseas after recently signing a promotional contract with Pacquiao’s MP Promotions (MPP) which will also include a partnership with TGB Promotions, MPP president Sean Gibbons confirmed to BoxingScene.com.

“We have been watching Mark for a few years now, bounced around and his career was put on hold for various reasons. But he is home now with MP Promotions and we are thrilled for Mark and his wife Frances that they signed with us,” Gibbons said.

The said deal will allow Magsayo to be showcased under the Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) banner in the United States. Tentative plans reportedly states for Magsayo to make his MPP and PBC debut on May 16, 2020.

Magsayo has fought primarily in his native Philippines, including a 12-round regional title fight win in his most recent start last August. “Magnifico” has made two previous appearances in the United States. In his stateside debut in October 2015, he scored a 1st round knockout win over Yardley Cruz followed by a 12-round decision win over Ramiro Robles in September 2016.

Despite his impressive record, activity has been an issue for Magsayo. In 2018, he has not fought all year but managed to bounce back by fighting twice in 2019. Thus far, Magsayo has not stepped inside the ring for more than six months but has shown eagerness to prove himself in world title contention under Pacquiao’s wing.

“I am more inspired to fight now especially since Senator Manny Pacquiao is my Idol. I look up to him a lot. I started boxing because of him. I will not waste the opportunity and will do my best to fulfill my dreams,” Magsayo said.

Apparently, Pacquiao sees himself in Magsayo and has vowed to help his possible successor to become a world champion as well.

“I have watched Mark develop here in the Philippines as a fighter. He reminds me of myself, how we both struggled to come from nothing to world-rated contender. I love his work ethic and desire to become a world champion and I will do everything to help promote Mark and make his dreams a reality,” Pacquiao vowed.