MMA News: BRAVE CF President Fetes Manny Pacquiao Following Boxing Retirement

The fight sports world continues to be abuzz days after Filipino boxing icon Manny Pacquiao officially announced his retirement.

The only eight-division world champion in boxing history made the announcement on Wednesday, September 29, ending a run in what has become an inspiration to anyone in the world.

Pacquiao rose from the ashes after initially being told that he was not good enough to box competitively.

The 42-year-old did not give up his dream and worked his way to prove critics wrong. As most know, his story is an inspiration to any sports personality who is determined to succeed and overcome adversity. That includes BRAVE CF president Mohammed Shahid.

“Manny Pacquiao is a legend of combat sports, not just in the Philippines, but worldwide. He has proven that a young kid full of dreams, talent, and perseverance can overcome adversities and march towards world titles, glory, and legendary status,” Shahid said.

“He deserves all the best in this new chapter of his life. We, at BRAVE Combat Federation, are working hard to make sure that Pacquiao’s story is not an isolated incident in the sport anymore. Manny will serve as an inspiration to many, many future world-class athletes from all around the world and all walks of life.”

The proud son of General Santos City, Philippines grew up with his family in a shanty area of the town, sleeping on cardboard boxes, buying doughnuts, and then selling them for a penny more to eke out a living

At 12 years old, Pacquiao ran away from home, living on the streets of Manila while working as a gardener and a construction worker.

In order to support his own families, Pacquiao dabbled into boxing, seeing it as his only escape from poverty.

Someone who has followed Pacquiao is Filipino mixed martial artist Rolando Dy, who looks up to the renowned southpaw.

“Happy retirement, my idol. Thank you for paving the way for all of us. You are a true icon of combat sports. I will forever be grateful for the inspiration you've given us,” Dy stated.