Boxing legend Pacquiao to visit Tanzania in May

DAR ES SALAAM: WORLD-RENOWNED boxing icon, Manny Pacquiao is set to visit Tanzania in May as part of efforts to promote the sport and develop local talent.

The visit was confirmed by president of the Tanzania Boxing Federation (TBF), Lukelo Willilo, who said it forms part of the federation’s long-term strategy to strengthen boxing nationally.

“Preparations for the visit are progressing smoothly, with discussions ongoing between the federation and Pacquiao’s team to finalise his schedule in Tanzania,” Willilo said.

The boxer’s visit, initially planned for an earlier date, was rescheduled due to his international commitments. He is expected to take part in a series of social and sporting events, including an international boxing bout aimed at identifying and nurturing local talent.

“Pacquiao’s presence will provide valuable learning opportunities for boxers, coaches, and sports officials,” Willilo said.

“This is a rare chance for our athletes to learn directly from someone who has reached the highest level in boxing. It will help raise the standard of the sport in Tanzania.”

The TBF president added that the visit is expected to boost youth participation, raise the profile of boxing nationally, and open doors for Tanzanian boxers to access international networks and professional opportunities.

“Hosting a global icon like Pacquiao will not only elevate boxing in Tanzania but also inspire a new generation of athletes to pursue the sport professionally,” he concluded.

Pacquiao, widely regarded as one of the greatest fighters in boxing history, is the only boxer to win world titles in eight different weight divisions, ranging from flyweight to super welterweight.

Turning professional as a teenager, the Filipino southpaw built a remarkable career spanning more than two decades, compiling a record of 62 wins, eight defeats and two draws, with 39 knockouts. His rise from poverty to global stardom made him one of the sport’s most recognisable figures.

Now competing primarily in the welterweight division, Pacquiao became the oldest welterweight world champion in history at the age of 40, underlining his longevity at the elite level.

After initially retiring in 2021, Pacquiao returned to the ring in 2025, fighting Mario Barrios for the WBC welterweight title in Las Vegas, with the bout ending in a majority draw. His comeback forms part of a continued involvement in boxing, alongside promotional and development activities.

Beyond the ring, Pacquiao has also had a significant political career, serving as a senator in the Philippines from 2016 to 2022 and running for president in 2022. He was also inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame (Class of 2025), cementing his legacy in the sport.