Like father, like son

The maiden show of Manny Pacquiao Promotions (MPP) on American soil is happening this weekend at the Pechanga Casino Resort in Temecula, California.

If successful, expect more cards in the coming year as American dealmaker Sean Gibbons intends to make the succeeding MPP shows a part of every fight fan’s favorite.

While it is not the night’s main event, Jimuel Pacquiao’s pro debut against fellow rookie Brendan Lally of Chicago is expected to steal the thunder from the marquee matchup.

The son of the legendary eight-division champion Manny, Jimuel is determined to follow his dad’s big foodsteps.

His foray into the punch-for-pay ranks has been delayed for quite a long time.

Since 2021, Jimuel has lived in Los Angeles and trained at the Wild Card Boxing Club in Hollywood in the hopes of making it big.

His training has been handled by Marvin Somodio, who occupies a vital part in Pacquiao’s corner.

Lally, who is of Irish descent, plans to rain on Jimuel’s parade as both daddy and mother Jinkee will be rooting for him at ringside in their lightweight showdown set for four rounds.

What makes Jimuel extra motivated is the fact that his girlfriend Carolina has just given birth to their first child, a daughter they have named Clara.

Somodio, who has been Jimuel’s trainer since Day One, feels the 24-year-old inherited traits from his Hall of Fame daddy.

Whether Jimuel would make it big someday remains a big question mark given that he will be competing in a very competitive division.

But with a solid crew backing him up, don’t be surprised if Pacman Jr. gains a following.

Surely, Manny and Jinkee won’t feel comfy watching their son attempt to make waves.

In fact, Jinkee swears that she is “very nervous” and the possibility of her skipping fight night entirely is not being ruled out.

As for Manny, he will be right there to cheer for Jimuel.

But definitely, he’d rather be on top fighting than see his son getting it on.