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Boxing embodies inclusivity—anyone, no matter their background, can enter the ring and achieve legendary status. This has occurred repeatedly throughout history. Boxing possesses a remarkable ability to lift individuals from diverse backgrounds, thrusting them into the spotlight and highlighting their origins in the process. Manny Pacquiao is a perfect example of this enduring legacy.

After struggling to make ends meet, Manny Pacquiao turned professional at 16, making his debut in January 1995 in the Philippines. Driven by a relentless pursuit of greatness, he soon set his sights on America, where he quickly grew in popularity. Pacquiao rose to legendary status, not just in the United States, but back home in the Philippines as well. However, what many may not know is that the ‘Pacman’ also has Spanish roots.

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Manny Pacquiao’s Spanish grandfather

Back in August 2021, ahead of his last professional fight against Yordenis Ugas, boxing’s only eight-division champion shed light on a lesser-known detail about his roots that had taken many people by surprise. During an interview with Fight Hype, the Filipino icon claimed, “I’m half Spanish,” adding, “My grandfather is a pure Spanish.”

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This was especially surprising considering the 46-year-old is known all over the world as a proud representative of the Philippines. There are no public records that prove Pacquiao’s Spanish heritage, even though he says they are. Still, the fact that he admits to having Spanish ancestors shows how diversified his family history is.

Because of more than 300 years of Spanish rule, Filipino culture is quite similar to Spanish culture. This is seen in the religions practiced in the country, the languages spoken, the buildings, the food, and the rituals. Pacquiao could have merely been the result of this past, which shaped who he is. But how Spanish is “Pacman”?

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What’s your perspective on:

Does Pacquiao's Spanish ancestry add a new layer to his already legendary status?

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Can Manny Pacquiao speak Spanish?

For longtime fans who’ve followed Manny Pacquiao closely, his Spanish heritage may not come as a surprise. Ahead of his third fight with Timothy Bradley, Pacquiao was asked to deliver a message to his fans in Spanish—and he didn’t hesitate. While he may not be fluent, his willingness and ability to speak the language suggest a genuine connection to his roots. 

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In fact, even before his blockbuster bout with Floyd Mayweather in 2015, Pacquiao addressed his Spanish-speaking fans during a 2015 interview with Seconds Out, once again showcasing that side of his heritage. What’s more, according to La Jornada Filipina in 2021, Pacquiao even sang along to the 1998 song ‘Dejaría Todo’ by Puerto Rican singer Chayanne. 

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Manny Pacquiao is pleased to be Filipino, but his origins seem to go back much further because of the many cultures in his home country. But did this catch you off guard? Did you know that his grandfather was Spanish and that he could speak Spanish?

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"Does Pacquiao's Spanish ancestry add a new layer to his already legendary status?"

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