Manny Pacquiao flashback: legendary trainer Freddie Roach and Philippines’ rising star Eumir Marcial ready to start pro journey
- The 24-year-old Marcial meets Roach for the first time at the American’s Wild Card Boxing Club in Hollywood, California
- Roach is preparing Marcial for his first pro fight early next year and the Olympic Games in Tokyo
Rising Filipino star Eumir Marcial walked through the doors of Freddie Roach’s Wild Card Boxing Club in Hollywood, California, on Thursday and the legendary coach instantly experienced a flashback to 2001.
It was the same doors that Manny Pacquiao walked through 19 years ago on his way to becoming one of the world’s best pound for pound fighters. Marcial is now hoping to emulate his idol and compatriot as a legend in world boxing with Roach by his side.
The 24-year-old Marcial met Hall of Fame trainer Roach for the first time as he began his journey as a pro fighter. Marcial has signed a pro deal with Pacman’s MP Promotions but will still be eligible to represent the Philippines at next year’s Olympic Games in Tokyo.
Roach – an integral part of Pacquiao’s team for most of his record eight division titles – is preparing the Zamboanga City native for his professional debut, which will probably take place early next year, as well as for his Olympic gold medal bid.
“When Eumir walked through the door into the upstairs gym, I flashed back to 2001 when Manny first walked through the same door looking for someone to do mitts with him,” said Roach in a media release.