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| Manny Pacquiao and Polish President Karol Nawrocki |
MANILA, Philippines — Eight-division boxing world champion Manny Pacquiao welcomed an unlikely training partner as Polish President Karol Nawrocki stepped into the ring at Elorde Gym in Parañaque during his state visit to the Philippines.
But this time, the biggest fight wasn't about winning a championship. It was about fighting poverty.
Pacquiao, who recently assumed the role of Secretary and Lead Convenor of the National Anti-Poverty Commission (NAPC), joined the Polish leader for a boxing training session that combined their shared passion for combat sports with a message of international solidarity.
Nawrocki, a longtime boxing enthusiast and admirer of Pacquiao, participated in training activities, exchanged boxing techniques and watched sparring sessions featuring reigning champions.
The Polish president also praised Pacquiao's remarkable journey from poverty to becoming one of boxing's greatest champions and eventually entering public service.
"Boxing teaches you that no matter how many times life hits you, you can always stand back up," Nawrocki said, describing Pacquiao's journey as an inspiration beyond the Philippines.
From Fighting for World Titles to Fighting Poverty
The meeting also highlighted Pacquiao's latest mission through the government's anti-poverty initiative, "Knockout Ang Kahirapan: Masaganang Pamumuhay sa Bagong Pilipinas."
The program aims to improve the lives of vulnerable Filipino communities by promoting sustainable livelihoods, economic opportunities and community empowerment.
For Pacquiao, the transition from boxing champion to government official represents a different kind of challenge.
"In the ring, you fight for a belt. In public service, you fight for the people," Pacquiao said.
He also emphasized that poverty is a global challenge requiring cooperation and collective action.
"Having President Nawrocki join us shows that our battle against poverty is a universal struggle. We are knocking out poverty, one community at a time."
Pacquiao's Biggest Fight Outside the Ring?
Pacquiao built his legendary boxing career by overcoming tremendous odds, winning world championships across eight weight divisions and becoming one of the most recognizable Filipino athletes in history.
Now, as NAPC Secretary, he faces a challenge that cannot be settled through 12 rounds inside a boxing ring.
His new role puts him at the forefront of efforts to address poverty, a problem that has affected millions of Filipinos for generations.
The unusual boxing session with Poland's president demonstrated Pacquiao's continued international influence, even as his responsibilities extend beyond sports.
For the People's Champ, winning world titles made him a boxing legend. Helping Filipinos escape poverty could become an equally important part of his legacy.
Source: NAPC Media Release, October 8, 2026.
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