26-12-2023 (BANGKOK) In an eagerly anticipated clash of titans, boxing enthusiasts are gearing up for the epic exhibition match between two legendary fighters, Manny Pacquiao and Buakaw Banchamek, scheduled for April 20 next year. The announcement comes from the official Banchamek Gym Facebook page.
Despite the excitement surrounding “The Match of Legends: Manny Pacquiao vs Buakaw Banchamek,” the location of the event remains unconfirmed. Organised by Thailand’s Fresh Air Festival Co Ltd and cinema operator SF Corporation, the bout boasts a substantial budget of 875 million baht (US$25 million).
The international boxing rules will govern the face-off, potentially placing Muay Thai champion Buakaw at a disadvantage. However, the 41-year-old Thai legend remains active in the fight scene, in contrast to eight-division world champion Pacquiao, 45, who officially retired from boxing in 2021.
The legends are set to engage in a compelling six-round bout, each round lasting three minutes with two-minute breaks. The stakes are high, with the winner set to receive a substantial cash prize of at least 10 million baht (US$289,000), as confirmed by the event organisers.
Fresh Air Festival CEO Vinij Lertratanachai, who first unveiled the ambitious plan in July, promised an unparalleled display of fighting spirit in this historic match. “We are honoured to have Manny ‘PacMan’ Pacquiao and Buakaw Banchamek for this historic event,” he stated. “It is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity you won’t want to miss.”
Manny Pacquiao, a national hero in the Philippines and a former senator, is renowned for his tenacious and hard-hitting style. He holds the distinction of being the only boxer to secure world belts in eight weight divisions.
On the other side, Buakaw Banchamek stands as a Muay Thai icon, celebrated for his explosive fighting style that seamlessly blends raw power with perfect technique. Regarded as one of the greatest Muay Thai fighters in history, he enjoys idolisation in his home country, Thailand.
As the anticipation builds for this historic event, fans worldwide eagerly await the unfolding of this clash between two legends from different realms of combat sports.
