MANILA — Retired boxing legend Manny Pacquiao recently took time to personally congratulate Eumir Felix Marcial on his remarkable silver medal victory at the Hangzhou 19th Asian Games.

Notably, Marcial’s success secured him a coveted spot in the upcoming Paris Olympics, marking a historic achievement as the first Filipino boxer to qualify for the games after reaching the Asiad final—an Olympic continental qualifier.

But their meeting at Pacquiao’s Forbes Park abode in Makati City went beyond mere congratulations, with Pacquiao generously sharing valuable boxing insights with the 28-year-old pugilist from Zamboanga City, and more.

International matchmaker Sean Gibbons, shedding light on the encounter, stated, “The living legend Pacquiao was so excited to see him, he also gave Eumir some boxing tips.”

However, the real revelation emerged as Pacquiao expressed a desire to orchestrate a professional fight for Marcial right here in Manila.

The proposed event, scheduled to take place in February and sponsored by Manny Pacquiao Promotions, could serve as a prelude to Marcial’s journey to the Paris Olympics, slated for July 26 to August 11, 2024.

Gibbons shared the news, saying, “The senator wants to do a fight here in Manila…maybe in February to be sponsored by the Manny Pacquiao promotions.”

This development adds an intriguing layer to Marcial’s already impressive career, emphasizing the close mentorship and support extended by Pacquiao, a future hall of famer at the age of 44.

Marcial, maintaining an undefeated 4-0 record with two knockouts, expressed his enthusiasm for the prospect of fighting in front of his hometown crowd. The last time Marcial stepped into the ring in Manila was during the 2019 Philippines 30th Southeast Asian Games, where he clinched the gold in the middleweight class.

“I’m begging for the support of my fellow Filipinos,” Marcial said, highlighting the significance of the Manila bout and the fervent backing he anticipates from the local fans.

While Marcial will undoubtedly headline the fight card orchestrated by Gibbons, he clarified that his training regimen would remain Stateside, returning to Manila only two weeks before the official announcement of the bout.

This strategic approach ensures he receives the ideal preparation not only for the pro match but also for his Olympic campaign.

As the excitement builds around Marcial’s potential Manila fight, it underscores the continued commitment of both mentor and protege to elevate Philippine boxing on the global stage.