'Next Manny Pacquiao' Joins Filipino Boxing Legend's Team, Set For Professional Debut

Philippines’ boxing rising star Eumir Felix Marcial, who has been earning comparisons to Manny Pacquiao, has officially signed with MP Promotions and could be set for a professional debut before his Tokyo Olympics appearance.

For quite some time now, Filipino boxing sensation Marcial has been touted as the successor of Pacquiao. After consistently impressing in the amateur ranks, many believe that Marcial is destined to cross paths with the Filipino legend as he climbs his way to the pros. And now, the 2019 world championships silver medalist has just taken a step forward to achieving his dream after he officially signed a six-year promotional term with Pacquiao’s MP Promotions.

The move will be significant for Marcial’s young career as he now has Pacquiao’s full support ahead of his forthcoming appearance at the Tokyo Olympics next year.

The 24-year-old has earned the moniker "next Pacquiao" after winning numerous medals in the amateurs. Marcial is looking forward to turning pro after the Olympics and is grateful for being backed by Pacquiao.

"I want to inform everyone of my decision to sign a promotional deal with Manny Pacquiao Promotions. I chose MP Promotions because of their 100% support in my desire to fight for the Philippines in future SEA Games and Asian Games competitions and the Olympics," Marcial told reporters (via World Boxing News).

"In fact, my six-year promotional deal stated that they won't be a hindrance at the time the national team needs me. It's also my honor to be a guide to my boxing career Senator Manny Pacquiao," he added.

Joining MP Promotions could open up a lot of opportunities for Marcial. In fact, Pacquiao’s promotional team has already reportedly lined up three professional fights for their newest fighter.

According to MP Promotions president Sean Gibbons, they are looking to have Marcial booked for his pro debut just before the Olympics, Filipino news outlet ABS-CBN Sports reported.

"Hopefully about three fights before [Marcial] has to stop and fully concentrate on the Olympics," Gibbons told the Philippine Sportswriters Association (PSA) Forum on Tuesday.

MP Promotions is also hoping to hand Marcial his first professional fight no later than October. However, Gibbons also noted that Marcial’s primary focus at this time is the Olympics. Therefore, they will have him compete in four- or six-round bouts rather than full 12-rounders.

As for which weight class Marcial will compete in, Gibbons said it will be in the middleweight division, which has a limit of 160 pounds.