The name Bruce Lee is eternally etched in stone on the walls of combat sports’ very own Valhalla. From making oriental martial arts a household name among the western audience to paving the way for the creation of mixed martial arts, he truly is a demigod among the mere mortals of combat sports. There is no denying that he has been a source of inspiration for many athletes worldwide. And one among them happens to be eight-division world champion, Manny Pacquiao. In fact, he once channeled his inner Lee during a media training session.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
A recently resurfaced video showed ‘PacMan’ during a media workout in 2012. It is speculated that this was when he was preparing for his fight against Timothy Bradley. In the video, he was seen flexing for the media personnel. Moreover, he went on to channel Lee by letting out his iconic yell/war cry.
Notably, Pacquiao is often seen emulating the martial arts legend. Pacquiao himself considers Lee one of his biggest inspirations. And also revealed that he has studied Lee, watching his movies on endless loops. Meanwhile, Pacquiao is currently preparing for a potential fight with controversial boxing icon, Conor Benn.
Not the first first time Manny Pacquiao mimicked Bruce Lee
There is no denying that ‘PacMan’ has immense respect for the martial arts legend. And this was, in fact, not the only time he had imitated Lee. Pacquiao faced Keith Thurman at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. The fight which took place on July 20, 2019, had a rather interesting media workout session as well.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
In a media workout video uploaded by Fight Hub TV, Pacquiao was seen engaging in a mitt session with his coach. However, he quickly followed with a few kicks. Notably, these were reminiscent of Lee’s kicks, complete with his iconic war cry. It sure looks like Pacquiao is on a quest to become as iconic as Lee.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
What are your thoughts on Pacquiao copying Lee? Let us know in the comments below.
WATCH THIS STORY – Manny Pacquiao’s Gruelling Strength and Conditioning Training Revealed