Just over thirty years on from Manny Pacquiao‘s professional debut, the son of the Filipino great is just hours away from entering the paid ranks and continuing the Pacquiao legacy.
Emmanuel ‘Jimuel’ Pacquiao Jr is all set to have his first professional bout at the Pechanga Resort & Casino in Temecula tonight, as he gears up to face fellow debutant Brendan Lally in a four round lightweight bout.
The 24-year-old from California has had just ten amateur bouts, winning six of these before making the decision to enter the professional ranks.
Just like his legendary father, ‘Jimuel’ has been training out of the world famous Wildcard Boxing Gym in Los Angeles alongside highly-respected coaches Marvin Somodio and Freddie Roach.
In a recent interview, Pacquiao admitted that he is ‘excited’ to finally make his professional debut, as he claims his father has been a ‘huge inspiration’ for him.
“It’s a big moment for me, and I’m very excited to finally make my professional debut. My father has been a huge inspiration and a great mentor. I’ve learned so much from him, not just about boxing, but about dedication and hard work.”
Whilst all eyes will be on ‘Jimuel’ on Saturday night, it is also set to be a memorable occasion for his opponent Brendan Lally, who is also making his professional debut and will have his sights firmly set on spoiling the party.
As for Manny, he looks set to continue his own legendary career by competing again in 2026, having made a sensational return to the sport earlier this year when he fought to a draw with WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios.
