Emmanuel “Jimuel” Pacquiao Jr. stepped into the professional boxing ring for the first time on Sunday, and the 24-year-old fighter walked away with a majority draw against Chicago native Brendan Lally at Pechanga Resort Casino.
The fight, which drew a lively crowd including Pacquiao Jr.’s parents, boxing legend Manny Pacquiao, and Jinkee, saw both fighters exchange momentum throughout the bout.
Lally, standing at 5-foot-7, used his slight height advantage to push Pacquiao Jr., who is 5-foot-6, to the ropes in the later rounds. Despite this, Pacquiao Jr. landed sharp overhand rights and uppercuts, earning cheers from fans and his family in attendance.
Pacquiao Jr., who officially began boxing as an amateur in March 2022, compiled a 6-4 amateur record before turning professional.
Outside the ring, the young fighter has recently celebrated a major personal milestone, welcoming his first child with his wife, Carolina.
While the draw leaves questions about his next steps in the professional arena, Pacquiao Jr.’s debut showcased a mix of resilience, skill, and flashes of the fighting spirit synonymous with the Pacquiao name.
