“If They Exempt Me to Participate…”: Passionate About Doing Noble Deed for His Country, Manny Pacquiao Reveals Regulation Hindering His Entry in Paris Olympics 2024

Manny Pacquiao, 44, has fought in over 72 professional bouts in his career thus far. However, fans could see him compete in the Paris Olympics 2024 as well. Pacquiao started his professional boxing career at the age of 16 back in 1995. Despite having a decorated career, Pacquiao never competed in the Olympics as he turned pro to provide for his family. Nevertheless, a desire to compete in the prestigious games never faded in his heart.

According to Sports Illustrated, Sean Gibson, president of MP Promotions, wrote in a text that Pacquiao had always cherished a dream of representing his country in the Olympics. What’s more, Pacquiao is one of the most popular personalities in the Philippines, so much so that their army once declared a seven-hour truce with insurgents just to watch Pacquiao’s fight. However, there is a major hurdle on his way to the Olympic ring. In a recent interview, the eight-division champion revealed what could prevent him from fighting for his country.

Manny Pacquiao is worried about the Olympic age limit

During the interview with Fight Hub TV, the reporter inquired if talks of Pacquiao representing his country in the Olympics were true. Pacquiao promptly responded by claiming he was in talks with the Olympic committee, securing his eligibility to participate in the prestigious games. “Yeah, that’s what we are trying to do right now to request to the Olympics committee to allow me to participate in the Olympics,” said Pacquiao.

The legendary eight-division champion went on to reveal there is an age limit for athletes who can participate in the games, and he is clearly over the age limit. So, if the Olympic committee allows him to participate, he can fight for his country. “Because there is an age limit. So, if they uh exempt me to participate in the Olympics, then I can fight,” Pacquiao told Fight Hub TV. 

Manny Pacquiao responds to Conor McGregor’s threat

Conor McGregor and Manny Pacquiao have an under-reported feud between them. Back in 2021, the two pugilists were supposed to face each other. However, the potential fight quickly fell apart because of a dispute between their management companies. What’s more, Pacquiao lost a court case against McGregor’s agency but has been avoiding paying for the case. 

So, recently, McGregor issued a threat to Pacquiao, claiming he would kick him in the head unless he returned the money. While appearing in an interview with MMA Junkie, Pacquiao responds to the threats from McGregor. Pac Man simply said, “Oh, he’s not active anymore.” Pacquiao and McGregor might cross paths in the Saudi event, so only time will tell if McGregor goes through with his threat.

Also Read: “This Coming December”: 8 Years After $300 Million Fight, Manny Pacquiao Confirms Floyd Mayweather Rematch

With passion in his heart for his country, Pacquiao seems adamant about competing in the Olympic games. However, there are no updates on if Pacquiao will be allowed to fight. Until then, let us know if you would want to see Pacquiao in the Olympic games.

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