Filipino world boxing icon Manny Pacquiao graces the press conference for the 50th anniversary celebration of the historic “Thrilla in Manila,” the milestone bout between Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier, at World Kitchens, Gateway Mall 2 in Quezon City on October 1, 2025 | PNA photo by Robert Oswald P. Alfiler
LOS ANGELES — Boxing legend Manny Pacquiao has been announced as a member of the U.S. National Boxing Hall of Fame (NBHOF) Class of 2027, with his formal induction scheduled for April 25, 2027, in Montebello, California. The confirmation was made public during the 3rd Pacquiao–Elorde Awards Night in Manila, where NBHOF executive Eric Schmidt presented Pacquiao with the official invitation letter.
Pacquiao, the sport’s only eight‑division world champion, will headline the 2027 class as the NBHOF’s “Main Event” inductee, according to the letter presented during the ceremony. The NBHOF recognition highlights Pacquiao’s historic impact on American boxing, from his U.S. debut in 2001 to his record‑setting run in Las Vegas that helped redefine pay‑per‑view boxing in the 21st century.
A Separate Honor From the IBHOF
The NBHOF honor is distinct from the International Boxing Hall of Fame (IBHOF) in Canastota, New York, where Pacquiao was inducted in 2025. The NBHOF focuses on contributions to U.S. boxing history, particularly fighters whose careers significantly shaped the American boxing landscape.
Filipino Community Reaction
Filipino and Filipino‑American groups in California have welcomed the announcement, calling Pacquiao’s upcoming induction a “continuing source of pride” for the diaspora. Community organizations are expected to mobilize supporters for the 2027 ceremony.
What Comes Next Pacquiao
Pacquiao is expected to attend the NBHOF induction weekend in April 2027, where he will be honored alongside other members of the Class of 2027. Additional details about the full list of inductees will be released by the NBHOF later this year.
