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| Photo by Bongbong Marcos |
Early this morning, someone sent me an article by respected veteran journalist Sir Ding Marcelo, published on Spin.ph. The piece argued that Manny Pacquiao’s “Thrilla in Manila 2” was an insult to Muhammad Ali, Joe Frazier, and boxing history. A suggestion was even made to rename the event “Trip to Jerusalem” — a mocking play on words targeting our current world champion, Melvin Jerusalem.
My immediate reaction? Don’t be surprised. Not everyone will see things the same way or appreciate the efforts behind a project like this. People have their own perspectives, and that’s a reality we must live with. While such criticisms may sting for those working tirelessly to make this event happen, I remain a firm believer in freedom of speech. I respect journalists who have the courage to voice their thoughts, even when those opinions cut against popular sentiment or risk offending powerful figures.
But here’s where I draw the line: I disagree vehemently with the notion that “Thrilla in Manila 2” is an insult. And I find the mockery of Melvin Jerusalem through the “Trip to Jerusalem” remark not only unnecessary but insulting to one of only two reigning Filipino world champions today. That jab could have been avoided.
This response is not an attack on Sir Ding Marcelo — whose decades of work I acknowledge — but a rebuttal to the rhetoric. And while I could have written this down, I believe today’s audiences resonate more with video and conversation. Still, there will be a written version of this on my website, powcast.net, because the written word, though fading in mainstream appeal, still carries value.
Some will accuse me of chasing clout. Others from mainstream circles might not like me — and that’s fine. I’ve grown comfortable with that. At the back of their minds, they probably still appreciate a rebellious, independent voice. After all, many of them were once the same. A veteran journalist once told me that being slapped with a libel case was almost like a badge of honor in this profession. And perhaps he was right.
Now, let’s get to the heart of it.
The original Thrilla in Manila in 1975 will never be replicated. Nothing today can equal the magnitude of Ali vs. Frazier — not even if Tyson Fury, Oleksandr Usyk, or Deontay Wilder headlined an event here. Different time, different circumstances. Don King, with his global clout, staged that fight and monetized it in ways promoters today simply cannot. Pacquiao, despite his stature, does not operate in the same business climate. That is the reality of boxing.
But does this mean Pacquiao’s attempt to honor the 50th anniversary is an insult? Absolutely not. At worst, one could say it’s “not enough” to match the original. But to call it an insult is unfair.
This October 29, at the Araneta Coliseum, fans will witness a free event featuring a world title defense by Melvin Jerusalem and a stacked card showcasing the brightest young Filipino stars. Unlike 1975, when Rolando Navarrete fought as the lone local attraction and came up short, this commemoration will highlight the future of Philippine boxing. Pacquiao’s Blow by Blow has consistently staged events without selling tickets, making this tribute a genuine gift to boxing fans — not a cash grab, not a marketing ploy.
And here’s something that cannot be ignored: Muhammad Ali’s own grandson will be present and competing in this event. If the Ali family themselves see this as a gesture worth honoring, shouldn’t that count for something?
To mock Jerusalem by reducing him to a pun is, frankly, beneath the conversation. He is one of our current champions, carrying the Philippine flag on the world stage. He deserves recognition, not ridicule. Perhaps what’s needed is not a “Trip to Jerusalem” but a trip to the boxing gym — to see how the sport has evolved and who carries its torch today.
We must also acknowledge that eras change. I remember when Sir Ding Marcelo once argued that Caloy Loyzaga would dominate today’s game. Maybe, but maybe not. Put a 6’3” center into today’s basketball and he’d be undersized. Times evolve, and so do standards. That doesn’t erase Loyzaga’s greatness, but it frames it in its era. The same applies to Ali and Frazier. Their fight will forever be untouchable, but it doesn’t mean we shouldn’t celebrate it through a modern lens.
This “Thrilla in Manila 2” isn’t about trying to outdo history. It’s about remembering it. It’s about reminding Filipinos of that legendary night, rekindling the passion for boxing, and inspiring a new generation. If we truly care about keeping the sport alive in this country, we should see this for what it is: a tribute, not a threat.
Boxing in the Philippines has survived because of Ali vs. Frazier, because of Pancho Villa, Flash Elorde, Navarrete, Espinosa, Penalosa, Donaire, and of course, Manny Pacquiao. It has also survived because of journalists who kept telling the stories that mattered. We are all part of this same ecosystem, all doing our part to keep the flame alive.
So, to my millions of followers and fans: if you don’t appreciate this effort to celebrate the Thrilla in Manila, that’s fine — maybe you’re just a hater. And that’s okay. But don’t miss the chance to witness history again, even in a different form.
On October 29 at the Araneta Coliseum, join us. It’s going to be free. Yes, free. Celebrate with us, remember with us, and honor the legacy that made Philippine boxing what it is today.
Are you with me, or against me? Let me know in the comments.
Video version:
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