In nine days, Jimuel Pacquiao will step into the ring to start his professional boxing career in squaring off with fellow newcomer Brendan Lally in the United States.
The Pacquiao boxing legacy is poised to take another step forward.
Manny Pacquiao’s eldest son, Jimuel, will make his professional debut against fellow newcomer Brendan Lally on Saturday, November 29, at the Pechanga Resort Casino in Temecula, California.
His professional debut will be featured in the co-main event, paired with a WBO featherweight title clash between Elijah Pierce and Lorenzo Parra, on a card promoted by his father’s Manny Pacquiao Promotions (MPP).
At 24, Jimuel carries both his own ambitions and the weight of one of boxing’s most iconic names.
He has been training at Los Angeles’ famed Wild Card Boxing Gym under Marvin Somodio, a longtime assistant to his father’s legendary trainer Freddie Roach.
“It’s a big moment for me, and I’m very excited to finally make my professional debut,” Jimuel said.
“My father has been a huge inspiration and mentor. I’ve learned so much from him—not just about boxing, but about dedication and hard work.”
As for the one and only eight-division boxing world champion, Pacman expressed nothing but pride to his son.
“I’m very proud of Jimuel. He has the heart of a fighter and has worked very hard for this. I told him to focus, train hard, and always stay humble. This is just the beginning of his journey.”
Jimuel, who is set to become a father with partner Carolina, compiled a 6-4 record in 10 official amateur bouts, with his most recent fight last April resulting in a unanimous decision victory over American Patrick Reyes.
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November 29 will provide the first glimpse of him under the bright lights of professional boxing, as fans watch to see whether he can forge his own path while honoring the Pacquiao name.
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Pao Ambat earned his journalism degree from Cavite State University in 2022
Passionate about sports from a young age, he primarily covers the NBA for One Sports, while also assisting in reporting on the PVL, PBA, UAAP, and other leagues.