History made twice over
By Joaquin Henson
PhilBoxing.com
Fri, 31 Oct 2025
In 1975, the world stood still when the “Thrilla In Manila” was staged at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. History was made with Muhammad Ali retaining the world heavyweight title as Smokin’ Joe Frazier surrendered on his stool before the start of the 15th round. President Ferdinand Marcos, Sr. and First Lady Imelda attended the fight.
Last Wednesday, history was remade in the same venue with President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. and First Lady Liza gracing the 50th anniversary celebration of the “Thrilla.” Manny Pacquiao, who spearheaded the staging of the event, sat beside President Marcos at ringside to watch Ali’s grandson Nico figure in a majority eight-round draw with Thai veteran Kittisak Klinson.
There were 11 fights on the 50th anniversary card and it was past midnight when Melvin Jerusalem capped the show with a unanimous 12-round decision over South African challenger Siyakholwa Kuse to keep the WBC minimumweight crown. Every bout on the program was a “Thrilla” with Eumir Marcial’s win on points over Venezuela’s Eddy Colmenares after surviving two trips to the canvas easily the most exciting.
But the man of the hour was Pacquiao. He made the golden anniversary historic, bringing in families of Ali and Frazier to commemorate the “Thrilla.” Pacquiao also guaranteed Filipino fans a treat by featuring Marcial and Carl Jammes Martin, both based in Las Vegas, on the card, a heavyweight duel and a world title fight. MP Promotions head Sean Gibbons, Blow By Blow CEO Marife Barrera and Liza Elorde were at the forefront of the organization that brought the “Thrilla” 50th anniversary to life.
In an inspiring message at the Gala Night on the eve of the “Thrilla” celebration, Pacquiao called the 1975 fight “a battle of will, heart and pride … a symbol of courage and perseverance.”
Pacquiao added: “Growing up in poverty in General Santos, I never thought I could stand where Ali stood. Ali taught me that being a boxer is not just about throwing punches. It’s about inspiring people, giving hope, showing that no matter how many times life knocks you down, you can always rise again.
“My own journey was never easy. I fought not just for myself but for my family and for the Filipino people. And every time I stepped into the ring, I remembered Ali----his discipline, faith and heart. He’s the reason many of us believe that greatness is possible, even if you start with nothing. His legacy lives in every boxer who dares to dream and in every person who refuses to give up no matter how hard life becomes. Ali once said, ‘He who is not courageous enough to take risks will accomplish nothing in life.’ These words carried me through many battles, inside and outside the ring. Let us carry that courage with us. Let us make every day count. And let us continue to fight----not just in boxing but in life, with faith, heart and love for others.”
Click here to view a list of other articles written by Joaquin Henson.
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