Boxing in Manila.
In light of Manny Pacquiao’s recent victory over Keith Thurman, I decided it was time to revisit some interviews I conducted in Manila at the tail end of 2018. Leaving behind the booming industry in the UK and travelling to South East Asia, I saw a chance to delve into a country where boxing idols have shaped the way of life for many Filipino people.
But first, to gain a better understanding of boxing in this country I think it is important to look at the history of the sport. Prior to the colonisation from the Spanish and Americans boxing was known as Suntukan [bare-hand fighting], a style which was originally banned by the Spanish, however, when later legalised its popularity saw a meteoric rise. Despite Fransisco Guilledo [more commonly known as ‘Pancho Villa] becoming the first Asian and Filipino world champion, it wasn’t until the Gabriel Elorde burst onto the scene that cemented the sport as a staple part of Filipino culture. Elorde defended his world title successfully 10 times, a reign which etched his name into the sports and Filipino history, with Elorde gyms now found scattered throughout Manila.
The name Manny Pacquiao is never far from conversation when talking about boxing in the Philippines. The most idolised sportsman throughout the country represents so many things to the people of the Philippines. The desire, determination and tenacity that can be recognised and associated with Pacquiao, are all characteristics seen in his own people. With his rags to riches story resonating with and inspiring so many, it is no surprise that by remaining humble and extremely charitable, he is seen as Godlike amongst his own people.
The first ever boxer to become World Champion in eight different weight classes, Pacquiao’s achievements rightly demands the utmost respect. Challenging the best fighters of his era, and fearing nobody, his accomplishments and astonishing displays of courage have won him the heart of boxing fans globally and rightfully saw him earn many millions. The story of Manny Pacquiao is inspiration to not only an entire nation but to aspiring athletes globally.
Far removed from the glitz and glamour of iconic venues such as Madison Square Garden in New York and the MGM Grand of Las Vegas, I found myself in down a side-street in Makati, Metro Manila at Golds Boxing Gym. Here, I was hoping to discuss the opportunities that might be available to aspiring fighters as well as any barriers to entry they may face. I spoke with 35 year old Joe Regis who provided me with in depth responses to both questions.
Whilst most fighters entering a boxing gym in Manila don’t have the aim of becoming professional boxers, for those that do, it is important to know how realistic their chances of success. Whilst obviously talent speaks for itself, a key factor in ones opportunities is the relationship one has with their coach. It was explained to me that there are a vast number of promotions occurring throughout the city regularly, however without the recommendation of a coach, your chances of filling one of the slots on the show are thin. Coaches need to gauge certain factors before putting you forward, such as your skill set, and surprisingly, the emphasis being put on ones endurance. This is critical for the entertainment aspect of the show.
No promoter wants to put on a show where the fighters don’t have the energy to compete at a fast and exciting pace. When asked about the possibility of securing ones future financially through the sport, Joe emphasised the importance of connections. Where the gym for some may be a place to work on your trade, here, impressing the owners also needs to be taken into consideration. With the connections to the promoters coming from those higher up in the gym, the chances of filling a slot of a promotion comes with impressing such people.
Where Joe saw the real possibility to enter the professional ranks, Lupo Vasilio [25] boxing out of the Elorde Gym, Mandaluyong, Manila, was more hesitant. Whilst believing it to be a noble ideal to try and secure ones financial future through the sport, the tough reality spoke to Lupo, who believed it to be only for the very toughest and most determined fighters. He also mentioned fighters out of his gym that had the talent to turn professional but did not have the platform to do so.
Moving away from Makati and toward the centre of Mandaluyong, I ventured to Tiger City boxing gym where I met with Rahim, a 24 year old ex-professional fighter turned trainer. Rahim was aware of many fighters that had turned professional, most currently boxing over a distance of 10 rounds.
He again confirmed the importance of contacts if you wish to make it in the professional game, however reaffirmed that you can make good money if you win. One point Rahim raised, which in the current climate of boxing worldwide hit home with me, was his retiring from the professional game due to decisions going the way of the home fighter, despite being clearly wrong. He now trains a range of ages, both male and female at Tiger City, with a growing community of budding fighters.
From from speaking to these interviewees, it seems that connections are critical if one is to survive in the professional ranks. This places an interesting dynamic on the relationship between the coaches and fighters within the gym. It is common knowledge that a fighters ability is often enhanced if they have a great connection with their trainer, however, here, it seems that if there were to ever be any fall outs or altercations, there is the potential for huge implications on their fighting career and thus ones earning potential.
Looking back on my time in Manila, the helpful and friendly nature of the Filipino people, welcoming me into the gyms offered me an insight into the passion held for the sport across the city. The Philippines truly is an amazing country and I can’t wait to be back.
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