The Manny Pacquiao legacy through the millennials' eyes

Because of his iconic stature as one of the world's greatest boxers, Manny Pacquiao has been hailed a modern-day hero by various generations of sports fans all over the world.

Considering his remarkable achievements within a span of just two decades, it’s not surprising how he was anointed as such.

But how can we really gauge the measure of his greatness?

How does he stack up compared to the boxing legends before him? And just how will he be remembered 50 years from now?

Perhaps a little perspective is in order.

For baby boomer sports fans, who probably grew up watching such champs as Muhammad Ali, Mike Tyson, Sugar Ray Leonard, Marvin Hagler, Evander Holyfield, among others, Pacquiao might just be another likely heir to the throne.

Millennials, however, regard him with unquestionable awe and reverence.

Anna, 22: “When I was growing up, all I remember was the fiesta atmosphere whenever Pacquiao had a fight. Of course, I didn’t know how great he was back then, but after Googling all his previous matches and what famous people say about him, I think he deserves to be called a national hero.”

Roger, 17: “As a kid, I remember how the family got together to watch his fights, and how EDSA would be so empty. Pound for pound, I can agree that Pacquiao is truly the best fighter of his generation. No one else comes close to what he’s achieved.”

Peter, 26: “I think Pacquiao can be called the Jose Rizal of our generation. In his own way, he was able to unite his countrymen, and what’s more admirable is that he’s now fighting for the welfare of his people, now that he’s a senator.”

Catch the Pacquiao-Matthysse “Fight of Champions” bout live from the Axiata Arena in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on July 15 via GMA-7, ABS-CBN, ESPN-5, Cignal TV, and Sky Cable.

Tickets are available at: https://myticket.asia

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