Veteran boxer and eight-division champion, Manny Pacquiao, 44, has his sights set on the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, France. The Philippines has made an unconventional request to the International Olympic Committee for Pacquiao to participate, notwithstanding his age surpassing the set limit for boxing.
After his retirement in 2021, following a twelve-round decision loss to Yordenis Ugas, Pacquiao also unsuccessfully ran for the Philippines presidency. Abraham Tolentino, Philippine Olympic Committee president, recently revealed that he petitioned the IOC for a “universality place” for the boxer. Such spots are reserved for athletes from nations that usually face challenges in securing Olympic slots through standard qualifying routes.
Come June 7, the confirmation for nine universality boxing places for the Paris Olympics - including five for women and four for men - will be announced. Addressing concerns, Tolentino assured that should Pacquiao be granted a spot, it won’t hinder other Filipino boxers from qualifying for the Games. He praised Pacquiao’s fitness, saying it’s commendable and even “better than other athletes.”
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