‘Blessed’ Pacquiao brings back historic card
Manny Pacquiao wasn’t even alive when Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier battled nearly to the death in the original “Thrilla in Manila” in 1975. But half a century later, it’s Pacquiao himself leading the 50th anniversary celebration of that iconic heavyweight clash—this time as a promoter.
“To think I wasn’t even born during the original staging of ‘Thrilla in Manila,’” Pacquiao said with a smile during the launch of the fight card. “I feel blessed to be the one to bring the 50th celebration to life.”
Presented by Pacquiao and the International Boxing Association, the “Thrilla in Manila” anniversary event happens on Oct. 29 at Smart Araneta Coliseum—the same venue where Ali and Frazier made boxing history.
The card is headlined by the WBC strawweight championship bout between Philippines’ Melvin Jerusalem and South Africa’s Ayanda Kuse. It also features Olympic silver medalist Eumir Marcial against undefeated American Eddy Colmenares in a 10-round middleweight bout.
Pacquiao sees this event not only as a celebration but as a platform to elevate local talent.
“It’s a big help for our boxers that they get this kind of break in these kinds of international promotions,” he said.
The fight night also showcases Filipino rising stars, including Marlon Tapales, Carl Jammes Martin and Arvin Magramo in undercard bouts.
