BY BOXINGSCENE STAFF August 30, 2023 Source: Boxing Scene
Photo Source: Boxing Scene
Eight division world champion Manny Pacquiao, 44-years-old, is itching to achieve his dream of competing in the Olympic games.
Pacquiao, who retired from boxing in 2021, has inquired about qualifying for the Olympic games in Paris next year.
According to Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino, Pacquiao’s camp has inquired about qualifying for Paris. Tolentino indicates that conversations took place with the Association of Boxing Alliances in the Philippines (ABAP) and the International Olympic Committee (IOC), which is supervising Olympic boxing.
“Senator Pacquiao’s camp reached out saying our Filipino ring idol wants to fight in Paris,” Tolentino said to Rappler. “But the Senator can no longer vie for qualification in the Asian Games in Hangzhou next month.”
There are some age limitations that Pacquiao would be forced to overcome.
The Asian Games, an Olympic qualifier, has an age limit for athletes of 40 in all sports. Pacquiao, who’s 4 years beyond the limit, could qualify for Paris through two Olympic qualifying tournaments set in the first and second quarters of 2024. Tolentino indicates that Pacquiao could also secure a berth under the Universality rule, which the IOC would grant. There are only nine places under Universality at the Paris Games – five for women and four for men.
Pacquiao has actively been competing in exhibition matches. His team confirmed to Rappler that he's willing to fight in the upcoming Olympics and that they have already reached out to Tolentino.
Tolentino also said that the ABAP would welcome Pacquiao to the national team and would assist in his qualification.
Pacquiao is currently scheduled to take part in an exhibition clash with Buakaw Banchamek, a multiple-time kickboxing champion, in early 2024.
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