Manny Pacquiao’s rise from extreme poverty in the Philippines to global superstardom remains one of boxing’s most celebrated stories.
Long before becoming a senator in his home country, Pacquiao carved out a historic career inside the ring, capturing world titles in eight different weight divisions—an achievement unmatched in the sport.
Now, decades removed from his rise, the Pacquiao name has returned to the ring in a new generation.
According to ESPN Singapore, Pacquiao’s son, Jimuel Pacquiao—who also goes by Manny Pacquiao Jr.—made his professional boxing debut in California against fellow first-time pro Brendan Lally.
The bout ended in a majority draw, an outcome that drew attention not just because of the famous surname but because of expectations surrounding how the younger Pacquiao would perform in his first outing.
Former WBO junior lightweight champion Jamel Herring weighed in during the fight, offering pointed commentary on what he was seeing.
“I’m watching Manny Pacquiao Jr.’s pro debut right now… and he’s making this fight look a lot tougher than it should be for a first outing,” Herring said to the outlet.
He later expanded on the contrast between fighters who grow up with financial security and those who come from survival-driven backgrounds, calling boxing “a poor man’s sport” where hunger often shows itself in the ring.
Herring added that while he hopes Jimuel succeeds, he was uneasy watching the fight, noting that he “definitely didn’t like his parents’ reactions ringside,” though he said he understood their concern.
Manny and his wife, Jinkee, were visibly tense throughout the bout. Speaking to FightHubTV afterward, Manny offered measured support. “He did well for his first fight. He only had a couple of amateur fights. I am satisfied with his performance,” Manny said.
He acknowledged, however, that expectations were higher: “We expected more. But it’s a good experience, a professional fight. I am sure that he learned a lot.”
Jimuel, who became a father just seven days before the bout, echoed that sentiment. “I could have done better,” he said. “For the next time, I am definitely pushing it more. It’s different to the amateurs… It’s a big step.”