World Boxing Association (WBA) to Declare Manny Pacquiao ‘Champion for Life’

MANNY PACQUIAO – World Boxing Association (WBA) president Gilberto Mendoza said Manny Pacquiao will get the ‘Champion For Life’ belt.

Filipino boxer and senator Manny Pacquiao is one of the most decorated boxers to compete in the sport. The eight-division world boxing champion has competed 72 times as a pro.

On Sunday, August 22 (Manila Time) the Pambansang Kamao fought Cuban boxer Yordenis Ugas in Las Vegas, Nevada. However, he was unable to fend off the challenges of his opponent.
Manny-PacquiaoPhoto Source: @mannypacquiao IG
After their intense fight, Manny Pacquiao attended the press conference and admitted that he had a hard time adjusting to Ugas’ body style in the ring. He also blamed the lack of time to practice for their fight.

The 42-year-old Pinoy boxer had to see an ophthalmologist to have his right eye check. In an IG post by his wife Jinkee Pacquiao, he was being spoon-fed while both of his eyes were shut.
Gilberto-Mendoza-Manny-Pacquiao-1Photo Source: @gilberticowba IG
Before he stepped into the ring, World Boxing Association (WBA) president Gilberto Mendoza visited Manny Pacquiao. He said the legendary boxer will be honored as “Champion for Life” regardless of the outcome of his bout with Yordenis Ugas.

Mendoza personally apologized to Pacman for the confusion regarding the title with the boxer telling him that it is nothing personal.

“Thank you for being such a nice gentleman, thank you for your understanding…I was fooled, and I’m sorry about it…”

“This is the 100 years of the WBA, the centennial year, you’re gonna be a Champion for Life. I’ll have a belt made and we’ll come with a resolution later,” he added.

Pacquiao told Mendoza that it’s “okay” and he doesn’t “need to say sorry, you’re doing a good job.”

https://www.instagram.com/p/CS75PcWLJSG/
In a previous article, local celebrities reacted to Yordenis’ upset victory over Manny Pacquiao. They expressed gratitude and support for Pacman after his boxing fight. It remains unclear whether he will continue boxing or retire to focus on politics.