Manny Pacquiao, revered for his respectful demeanor and ferocious boxing style, has had a storied career spanning four decades. Rising from poverty in the Philippines, he became one of boxing's greatest, defying odds and surpassing expectations. His American debut against Lehlo Ledwaba marked the beginning of his international acclaim, showcasing his strategic prowess and relentless combinations. Pacquiao's victories over top-tier opponents like Erik Morales, Oscar De La Hoya, Ricky Hatton, Miguel Cotto, and Antonio Margarito solidified his status as an eight-division world champion. Even at 40, he continued to defy age by defeating Keith Thurman and becoming the oldest welterweight champion. Pacquiao's legacy is not just in his records but also in his ability to inspire and captivate fans worldwide.
Here are the key facts extracted from the text:
1. Manny Pacquiao is a boxer who fights for the people.
2. He has had a long career over four different decades.
3. Pacquiao has competed in exhilarating fights with great power and speed.
4. He started his career in the Philippines with no money, fighting to feed his family.
5. Pacquiao rose through the ranks in boxing in a challenging way.
6. He is considered one of the greatest boxers of all time and a popular sporting icon.
7. Pacquiao's American debut was against Lehlo Ledwaba, who was on a 23-fight win streak.
8. Pacquiao was 24 years old during his American debut on HBO.
9. In his fight against Ledwaba, Pacquiao used strategic positioning and timing to win.
10. Pacquiao defeated Ledwaba, surprising fans and the boxing world.
11. He became the super-bantamweight champion after replacing Ledwaba's original opponent.
12. Pacquiao fought Erik Morales twice, losing the first fight but winning the rematch.
13. In the rematch against Morales, Pacquiao used head movement and traditional boxing style to win.
14. Pacquiao fought Oscar De La Hoya, moving up two weight divisions for the fight.
15. He defeated De La Hoya by utilizing speed and movement, sending De La Hoya into retirement.
16. Pacquiao became a 7-weight world champion after defeating Ricky Hatton and Miguel Cotto.
17. He extended his record to 8-weight divisions by defeating Antonio Margarito at 154 pounds.
18. At 40 years old, Pacquiao defeated Keith Thurman, becoming the oldest welterweight champion in boxing history.
These facts highlight Manny Pacquiao's significant achievements and milestones throughout his boxing career.