Lasting Legacy of Manny Pacquiao: A Look at the Influence on History

A closer look at the lasting mark left by Manny Pacquiao—a timeline of influence.

Manny Pacquiao, nicknamed "PacMan", is a Filipino icon celebrated as one of boxing's all-time greats. He holds the distinction of being the only eight-division world champion in boxing history, demonstrating unparalleled versatility and skill across weight classes. Beyond his boxing achievements, Pacquiao also served as a senator of the Philippines from 2016 to 2022, showcasing his commitment to public service and his nation.

Sections (7)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals Legacy & Impact

November 2008: Featured on Reader's Digest Asia Cover

In November 2008, Manny Pacquiao was featured on the cover of Reader's Digest Asia, with a seven-page story highlighting his boxing career and achievements. The issue came out before Pacquiao's fight against De La Hoya.

November 16, 2009: Featured on Time Magazine Asia Cover

On November 16, 2009, Manny Pacquiao was featured on the cover of Time magazine Asia, recognized for his charisma, intelligence, and influence in boxing. The article highlighted Pacquiao's ability to revive the sport and his appeal to global brands like Nike.

2009: Included in Time's 100 and Forbes Celebrity 100

In 2009, Manny Pacquiao was named one of Time magazine's 100 most influential people, recognizing his boxing exploits and influence among Filipinos. Pacquiao was also included in Forbes' Celebrity 100 list for 2009, alongside Angelina Jolie and other athletes.

April 15, 2015: Release of "Kid Kulafu" Film

On April 15, 2015, the film "Kid Kulafu", based on Manny Pacquiao's early life in boxing, was released. The film, starring Buboy Villar as Manny Pacquiao, portrays the boxing superstar's childhood.

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May 2, 2015: Pay-Per-View and Ticket Sales Records

On May 2, 2015, Manny Pacquiao's welterweight title fight at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas set records for highest selling pay-per-view boxing match and highest revenue earned from ticket sales for a boxing match.

2016: Ranked No. 2 on ESPN

In 2016, Manny Pacquiao ranked No. 2 on ESPN's list of top pound for pound boxers of the past 25 years.

2021: Inspiration for Paquito in Mobile Legends: Bang Bang

In 2021, the playable character Paquito in the mobile game Mobile Legends: Bang Bang, was inspired by Manny Pacquiao. A skin was created to change the character's appearance to resemble the boxer. Also in 2021, Ranida Games announced the development of "Fighting Pride: The Manny Pacquiao Saga", a mobile game based on Pacquiao's boxing career.

2022: Ranked Ninth in The Ring's List

As of 2022, Manny Pacquiao was ranked ninth in The Ring's list of the top 100 boxers of all time.

August 2023: Pacquiao's YouTube Channel Subscribers

As of August 2023, Manny Pacquiao's YouTube channel had 990,000 subscribers. The Pacquiao family members have their own separate YouTube channels, posting content about their activities.

2024: Greatest Asian Athlete

In 2024, ESPN ranked Manny Pacquiao as the greatest Asian athlete of the 21st century.

2025: Fighter of the Century and Ranking

In 2025, Manny Pacquiao was awarded the Fighter of the Century honor by the World Boxing Council, joined Sugar Ray Robinson as the only boxer to have won the "triple crown" of legacy awards, and ranked second behind his fierce rival Floyd Mayweather in The Ring's list of the greatest pound-for-pound fighters of the 21st century.

2025: Hall of Fame Induction

In 2025, Manny Pacquiao was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame, and The Ring ranked Pacquiao second among the greatest pound-for-pound fighters of the 21st century.