Manny Pacquiao Pens a Special Note to His “Inspiration” Sugar Ray Leonard While Exchanging 2024 New Year Wishes

Did you wish your idol a happy new year? Manny Pacquaio did. He let Sugar Ray Leonard know the worth he has in Pacman’s life. Boxing icon Manny Pacquiao, gearing up for a potential rematch with Floyd Mayweather, took a moment to acknowledge another legend. On Instagram, Sugar Ray Leonard’s latest post became a canvas for an unexpected exchange.

His comment, veiled in gratitude, extended beyond mere pleasantries. Interestingly, amidst training and fight speculations, Pacquiao’s choice to pause and pen something profound hints at a deeper narrative. This odd blend of digital interaction and boxing camaraderie makes one wonder: what did Pacquiao really say?

Sugar Ray Leonard’s vibrant 2023

Sugar Ray Leonard, a titan in the welterweight division where Manny Pacquiao also made his mark, recently shared a series of photos on Instagram reflecting on his 2023 highlights. These images ranged from encounters with fellow boxing legends like Manny Pacquiao, Mike Tyson and Oscar De La Hoya to cherished memories with entertainment stars Michael B Jordan. His caption, as vibrant as the images, read, “This year was full of joy—surrounded by family, friends, and loved ones. I am wishing everyone a Happy New Year. Let us all accomplish great things, make more memories, and celebrate life. Cheers to 2024! 💥🥊”

In response, Manny Pacquiao paused his rigorous routine to leave a comment. Demonstrating his respect and admiration, Pacquiao’s words resonated with sincerity. “Happy New Year to you and your family champ. Thank you for being such an inspiration in my life. God Bless!” he wrote. This simple yet powerful message underlined the deep influence Leonard has had on Pacquiao’s life and career.

Leonard, a figure whose legacy in the welterweight division mirrors that of Pacquiao, stands as a beacon of inspiration not just for his in-ring prowess but also for his impact outside of it. Transitioning from the anticipation of his next big fight, Pacquiao’s heartfelt note to Leonard underscores the profound connections formed beyond the ring. Now let’s look at the time when Sugar Ray Leonard interviewed Manny in 2012.

When Sugar Ray Leonard interviewed Manny Pacquiao

In an interview on September 25th 2012, with boxing legend Sugar Ray Leonard on SugarRayLeonard.com, Manny Pacquiao opened up about the rigors of balancing his career and family life. “I have a lot of responsibility, especially giving time to my family, and of course the fans, and of course the work in my job, in my office, but I’m still OK. I’m still happy continuing my boxing career,” Pacquiao reflected.

Discussing his focus and determination, Pacquiao emphasized, “You have to focus first and give time to your family, and then the rest, that’s your job, your responsibility being a boxer, being a politician. Your responsibility to the fans, everything. You have to manage your time.”

Leonard, sharing his own experiences, asked about Pacquiao’s family’s views on retirement. “My family wants to retire. Especially my mom and also my kids. But my kids… they request, ‘Daddy, I want you to retire, but before you retire I have one request.’ ‘What is that?’ ‘You need to fight Floyd Mayweather and beat him,'” Pacquiao revealed. Which Manny eventually did but ended up losing.

Also Read: Manny Pacquiao’s Olympic Dream Is Far-Fetched, Here’s Why

Pacquiao’s candid revelations about his family’s wishes and his own aspirations provide a rare glimpse into the personal side of a boxing legend. What do you think drives a champion like Pacquiao to continue pushing forward in the face of such complex demands? And as the Floyd Mayweather rematch looms on his head, do you think he would be able to beat Mayweather this time?

Watch this story: Every Time Manny Pacquiao Got Knocked Out Cold in the Ring