Manny Pacquiao, boxing's only eight-division world champion, entered the International Boxing Hall of Fame on his first year of eligibility.
Turning tears into triumph and poverty into power, Manny Pacquiao's induction into the International Boxing Hall of Fame (IBHOF) Class of 2025 is a crowning moment in a career that redefined what was possible—in and out of the ring.
The Filipino icon, known worldwide as the only eight-division world champion, has carved out a legacy that transcends boxing.
From flyweight to super welterweight, Pacquiao climbed weight classes and climbed into history books, defying odds and critics with every punch.
His longevity in the sport becoming the oldest welterweight world champion at age 40—showcases a fighter with not just fast hands but an indomitable will.
Inside the squared circle, he defeated legends like Oscar De La Hoya, Miguel Cotto, Ricky Hatton, and Juan Manuel Marquez.
Pacquiao’s 2015 clash with Floyd Mayweather became the highest-grossing fight in pay-per-view history, a testament to his global appeal.
But the heart of Pacquiao's story lies far beyond the ring. Born in General Santos City, his rise from hunger and hardship inspired a generation.
“I came from nothing… just a dream in my heart,” Pacquiao said during his emotional IBHOF speech at Turning Stone Casino in New York, pausing to hold back tears as he honored his roots, his faith, and the Filipino people he has long fought for.
His journey didn’t stop at championships. As a former senator and presidential candidate, and through decades of humanitarian work, Pacquiao continues to embody the spirit of service and resilience.
Selected in his first year of eligibility, his induction stands alongside fellow legends Michael Nunn and Vinny Paz, reinforcing his place not just in boxing lore but in the story of human perseverance.
Now at 46 years old, Pacquiao isn't done writing history.
On July 19, he returns to the ring in a highly anticipated comeback fight against WBC champion Mario Barrios—proving that the fire still burns.
“I came from nothing, but I never stopped believing that I could become something—not just for myself, but for my country,” said Pacquiao.
“Every fight, every belt—I carried the hopes of the Filipino people. This Hall of Fame is not just mine. It belongs to all of us.”
From barefoot beginnings to boxing’s highest pedestal, Manny Pacquiao remains a champion not only of titles but of the Filipino soul, and the relentless human spirit that dreams beyond limits.