The eight-division world champion Manny Pacquiao was appointed on Monday during the Board of Directors meeting held in Manila, Philippines. His mission is to develop athlete-centred programmes, expand boxing’s reach in Asia, defend rights, and advise the President, Umar Kremlev.
The gathering coincided with the eve of the 50th anniversary of the legendary ‘Thrilla in Manila’, one of the most iconic fights in boxing history, which took place at the Araneta Coliseum (now the Smart Araneta) in Quezon City. That bout saw Muhammad Ali face Joe Frazier, with the latter claiming victory in round 14. The fight is still a symbol of Manila and the Philippines as a whole, just as Pacquiao himself is an icon of his city, country and region. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest pound-for-pound fighters in history.
The IBA hopes this transition from sporting legend to global sports leader will usher in a ‘Golden Era’ for the organisation, as described by its president at a conference in Istanbul last July. This era will be characterised by the professionalisation of the sport, the expansion of opportunities for athletes, and the protection of boxing from political interference.
Pacquiao will work alongside Kremlev, as confirmed by the organisation in its announcement.
“Manny Pacquiao is widely loved around the world. He is a true boxing legend who wants to leave a legacy beyond the ring. His life story reflects the spirit of the IBA’s mission, giving every young boxer a fair chance to achieve their dreams,” said Kremlev.
“As an organisation, we have been helping children, and now Manny is joining us. Now, we will continue to help our young people together as one united IBA boxing family and extend Manny’s programmes beyond borders,” he added.
Pacquiao, who turns 47 on 17 December, has remained active and in excellent shape since retiring from professional boxing in 2021. Last year, at the age of 46, his passion for the sport led him to request special permission from the International Olympic Committee to compete in the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Although he was prevented from competing due to age restrictions, the request was a testament to his lifelong devotion to the sport. He is now determined to pass on his knowledge and experience to the next generation of athletes.
“Under the visionary leadership of President Umar Kremlev, the IBA has entered a golden era, an era in which every boxer, from every country, can dream, fight, and succeed on equal terms. I am proud to join this mission, to ensure that no young boxer is left behind, no champion is forgotten and no nation is excluded,” said the Filipino icon.
“As vice president, I will dedicate myself to building bridges between amateurs and professionals, between East and West, and between generations and cultures. I believe that boxing has the power to unite people in ways that politics never can. It can change lives, transform communities, and foster peace in places of division,” he concluded.
The IBA explained that Pacquiao will play an active role in promoting the organisation’s mission and values. In line with the IBA Constitution, the former world champion will promote the Association’s ideals worldwide, advise the president and the board on strategic matters within his area of expertise, and represent the IBA at major international events and initiatives.
Although he will not have voting rights on the board, he will participate in meetings. The organisation aims to leverage his insight, experience and global influence to enhance its outreach. Pacquiao will also carry out ‘special assignments’ entrusted to him by the president, in keeping with the organisation’s vision for a new ‘Golden Era’ of boxing.
— insidethegames
🔗 Follow Ghanaian Times WhatsApp Channel today. https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VbAjG7g3gvWajUAEX12Q
🌍 Trusted News. Real Stories. Anytime, Anywhere.
✅ Join our WhatsApp Channel now! https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VbAjG7g3gvWajUAEX12Q
