Despite the presence of some of the era’s biggest fights and events, if someone calls 2025 the year of Manny Pacquiao, it would be hard to argue otherwise. The boxing great shocked everyone when he returned to title contention. And now, as the year draws to a close, he is taking big strides into the boxing business. His promotional company, Manny Pacquiao Promotions, has announced the launch of its U.S. operations.

To kick things off, MP Promotions has put together a tightly packed event scheduled for November 29 at the Pechanga Resort Casino in Temecula. A month before that, however, Manny Pacquiao and his team plan to host a special event back home in the Philippines. Titled Thrilla in Manila 2, it is slated for October 29. It will commemorate the fiftieth anniversary of Muhammad Ali‘s epic title defense against the legendary ‘Smokin‘ Joe’ Frazier. Fans went ecstatic after seeing a video clip featuring Pacquiao and other dignitaries speaking about the event, which will showcase, among others, Nico Ali Walsh, Ali’s grandson.

Manny Pacquiao sets foot in U.S. fight business

Speaking at the dais, boxing’s lone eight-division champion recalled that he was born in 1978. Three years after the Ali-Frazier trilogy concluded at the Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City. Switching between Tagalog and English, Pacquiao appeared joyful as he reflected: “Preparing for the 50th celebration of Thrilla in Manila… I’m so honored and thankful to God for this blessing.”

According to reports, Manny Pacquiao Promotions’ inaugural U.S. event will feature a WBO title eliminator between ranked contenders Elijah Pierce and Lorenzo Pierce. Adding intrigue, the card will also mark the professional debut of his son, Emmanuel ‘Jimuel‘ Pacquiao Jr.

Speaking about his new venture in America, Pacquiao said, “It is an honor to bring Manny Pacquiao Promotions to the U.S. November 29 marks a pivotal new beginning. Some of my greatest memories took place in U.S. rings, and I’m proud to now create opportunities for the next generation of champions.”

So, how did fans react when they learned about Thrilla in Manila 2?

Anticipation peaks for Thrilla in Manila 2

One fan could barely contain their excitement: “This event is going to be on FIRE!!!” With names such as WBC strawweight champion Melvin Jerusalem, ranked contender Carl Martin, and Nico Ali Walsh on the card, expectations are sky-high.

Another fan connected the dots and emphasized the event’s historic relevance: “For us, it’s history waiting for the big fight. Good luck to our kababayan boxers, and God bless our Thrilla in Manila history ❤️❤️❤️🇵🇭🇵🇭🇵🇭🇺🇸🎂🇺🇸.” Though fought by two American legends, the 1975 trilogy remains a momentous chapter in Philippine boxing history.

A third fan expressed long-awaited excitement: “Here we goooo! This is what I’ve been waiting for; it’s finally coming to fruition.” A modern-day event may never match the legacy of Ali vs. Frazier III. Still, even an attempt to honor those glorious days feels worth the wait.

Another supporter predicted significance: “This will make history; many Filipinos will crawl.” The original Ali-Frazier bout, held outside the United States, drew over a billion television viewers and packed the arena with more than 25,000 fans. Another card at the same venue is expected to attract a strong crowd.

Still, some confusion lingered over the details. “When is the schedule for Trilla in Manila?” this follower asked. More information is expected to be released in the coming days for fans worldwide.

As it stands, the Thrilla in Manila 50th Anniversary event will take place on October 29.

It’s a milestone moment for Manny Pacquiao, who founded his promotional venture nineteen years ago. Under the stewardship of former fighter and trainer Sean Gibbons, Manny Pacquiao Promotions has grown rapidly, with a roster that already boasts Filipino champions. The addition of Isaac ‘Pitbull‘ Cruz further signaled the company’s intent to expand into new markets. Its inaugural U.S. event is still weeks away. However, with Thrilla in Manila 2, MP Promotions has firmly announced its entry into the big leagues of boxing promotion.

What’s your favorite memory from Ali vs. Frazier III?