Manny Pacquiao reveals reason behind joining Netflix’s Physical: Asia

Philippine boxing icon Manny Pacquiao, widely recognized as one of the greatest and most popular fighters in the history of the sport, is once again stepping into a new arena — this time on Netflix. The eight-division world champion has made his streaming debut on Physical: Asia, a regional spin-off of the hit Korean reality series Physical: 100, where athletes from across Asia compete in intense physical challenges for the top prize.

The 46-year-old sports legend leads Team Philippines, heading a six-member lineup composed of sambo athlete Mark Mugen, strongman Ray Jefferson Querubin, rugby player Justin Coveney, hurdler Robyn Lauren Brown, and CrossFit athlete Lara Liwanag.

In a recent interview with Gia Allana, Pacquiao shared the story behind his decision to join the show.

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“Excited ako nung may tumawag sa akin na, may opportunity ako na makapag-join sa Physical: Asia. Sabi ko oo, nag-meeting kami, and then iyon na ‘yung start,” Pacquiao said.

“Pinaka-na-excite ako nung binalita sa akin is ‘yung mga challenges na dadaanan namin, ‘yung mahaharap namin, iba’t ibang mga challenges because in the past nanonood ako ng show ay napakaganda for me to participate in a competition like that. ‘Yung Physical:100 pinanood ko and nung in-explain sa akin ‘yung concept, everything like that, I said yes,” he added.

I love Manny Pacquiao, 46 years old and still representing the Philippines on the global stage pic.twitter.com/60kERl3PuF

— Anna Quintana Pablo (@AnnaQuin07) October 30, 2025

Physical: Asia expands the original Physical: 100 format by featuring top athletes from across the continent. Much like the Korean version, the series showcases elite competitors from sports such as MMA, boxing, and Wushu Sanda, while adding new talent from countries across Asia and Oceania.

This season features 48 contestants from eight nations — Australia, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, Mongolia, the Philippines, Thailand, and Turkey — all battling it out in challenges designed to test strength, endurance, teamwork, and strategy.

Pacquiao expressed confidence in Team Philippines’ ability to compete at a high level, praising his teammates’ mix of power, speed, and intelligence.

“Kompleto kami dahil may malakas kami, may mabilis kami, at tsaka may mga plano kami, magaling mag-plan ‘yung mga kasama ko dito, so we can strategize lahat ng mga gagawin namin para manalo sa bawat challenge,” Pacquiao said.

According to the producers, this season draws inspiration from Korean mythology and royal architecture, featuring elaborate sets and mythical elements — including a Jeoseungsaja-inspired judge, folklore-based guardians, and monumental strength challenges.

With Pacquiao’s trademark determination and leadership, Team Philippines aims to make its mark in Physical: Asia and continue the country’s proud tradition of excellence in international competition.

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