Manny Pacquiao is set to mark the anniversary of one of Muhammad Ali’s most iconic fights with a fight night of his own in his native Philippines.
To commemorate 50th years since the blockbuster third fight between Ali and Joe Frazier, which was billed as the Thrilla in Manila, Pacquiao’s MP Promotions and IBA Pro will stage a fight night at the same Smart Araneta Coliseum in Manila on October 29.
At the top of the bill, hometown favourite, Melvin Jerusalem will make a third defence of his WBC minimum weight world title against South Africa’s Siyakholwa Kuse.
“The Thrilla in Manila lit a fire in my heart as a kid, pushing me to dream big,” Pacquiao said.
“Bringing Thrilla in Manila 2 to Manila with IBA Pro is my way of passing that fire to the next generation.
𝐓𝐇𝐑𝐈𝐋𝐋𝐀 𝐈𝐍 𝐌𝐀𝐍𝐈𝐋𝐀 𝟐 🇵🇭
In celebration of the 50-year anniversary of the ‘Thrilla in Manila’, #IBAPro11 will take place on October 29 at the Araneta Coliseum in association with @MannyPacquiao Promotions 🏆#Boxing | @IBA_Boxing pic.twitter.com/y75QYq4hAo
— IBA.Pro (@IBA_Pro_Boxing) October 9, 2025
“On October 29, we’re making history again, and the world will feel the heat of Filipino pride!”
Al Siesta, CEO of IBA Pro, said: “Partnering with Manny Pacquiao and MP Promotions for Thrilla in Manila 2 is a game-changer.
“This event blends Manila’s rich boxing legacy with global star power, from Melvin Jerusalem’s title defense to Nico Ali Walsh’s historic return.
“We’re delivering a night that will thrill fans and shake the boxing world.”
Former world champion, Marlon Tapales is also set to feature on the card as well as Ali’s grandson, Nico Ali Walsh, who will clash with Thailand’s Patumpong Saengarun.
“Fighting in Manila, where my grandfather made history, is a dream come true,” Ali Walsh said.
“I’m bringing everything I’ve got against Klinson to honor that legacy and show the world who I am. Expect fireworks!”
Pacquiao is set for a ring return of his own after announcing this week that he will be fighting on January 24 in Las Vegas.
The 46-year-old ended a near four-year lay-off in July when he drew with Mario Barrios in a challenge for the American’s WBC welterweight title in Las Vegas.
The eight-weight world champion is expected to face WBA welterweight titlist, Rolly Romero, who dropped Ryan Garcia on route to a points victory at Times Square in May.
Pacquiao’s advisor Sean Gibbons confirmed this week that they are looking to seal a deal to face Romero.
“There’s no denying it’s there,” Gibbons told FightHype.com.
“And that’s the idea, absolutely.”
