Philippine boxing icon Manny Pacquiao, widely recognized as one of the greatest and most popular fighters in the history of the sport, headlined the 2025 batch of inductees into the International Boxing Hall of Fame, which took place on Sunday, June 8, in Canastota, New York.
Pacquiao’s induction into the Hall of Fame comes ahead of his much-anticipated return to the ring, after announcing his boxing comeback to challenge Mario Barrios for the World Boxing Council (WBC) welterweight championship on July 19 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.
The 46-year-old took to Instagram to express his gratitude to everyone who helped him on his journey, which saw him become the only fighter to win titles in eight separate weight divisions.
“From the streets of General Santos, to the bright lights of Las Vegas, to tonight at the International Boxing Hall of Fame. No shoes, no food, no chance, just a dream in my heart. I never imagined this moment, but by God’s grace, here we are. This is not just about boxing. It’s about faith. Family. Sacrifice. Purpose. It’s about every Filipino and every fan who believed in me, even when the doubters didn’t,” Pacquiao wrote in his post.
“To my wife Jinkee and our kids, thank you for your love and support through every high and every low. To the fans, coaches, media, and every person who cheered, prayed, or stood by me all these years—this is your victory too. And to the next generation of fighters: never let your situation limit your destiny. With God, nothing is impossible.
Mabuhay ang Pilipinas. This is our story. And the best is still to come.”
Ranked as the best Asian athlete of the 21st century, “PacMan” is arguably one of the greatest boxers of all time. He won world titles in an unprecedented eight weight divisions, showcasing his versatility and dominance. Pacquiao’s career spanned over three decades, during which he defeated numerous boxing legends.
Recognized as Fighter of the Year by Ring Magazine in 2006, 2008, and 2009, he was also named the BWAA’s Fighter of the Decade for the 2000s and won the Best Fighter ESPY Award in 2009 and 2011. Pacquiao’s remarkable achievements and impact on boxing highlight his extraordinary legacy, which has since expanded into politics and executive roles in various sports.
Along with Pacquiao, others inducted into the Hall of Fame include Vinny Paz, Michael Nunn, Yessica Chavez, Mary Jo Sanders, Anne Sophie Mathis, Cathay Davis, referee Kenny Bayless, cut man Al Gavin (posthumous), referee Harry Gibbs (posthumous), broadcaster Randy Gordon, television producer Ross Greenburg, Rodrigo Valdez (posthumous), and Owen Swift (posthumous).
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