FILE – Manny Pacquiao prepares to fight Keith Thurman in a welterweight title fight Saturday, July 20, 2019, in Las Vegas. (AP Photo/John Locher)
MANILA, Philippines—Manny Pacquiao has signed with agency Paradigm Sports Management for the “final years” of his boxing career.
The move also bolstered speculations of a potential project with UFC superstar Conor McGregor as Paradigm also represents the former MMA World champion.
“I am proud to partner with Paradigm Sports Management and am excited for the opportunities that [Paradigm president and CEO] Audie Attar and PSM have to offer,” said Pacquiao in a statement included in report from ESPN’s Dan Rafael.
Incredibly proud to announce that @ParadigmSM is officially representing Manny Pacquiao. I’d like to thank everyone involved in this, including our partners Arnold, Ping, Atty Brando, Jayke and the rest of Team Pacquiao back in Manila. Cannot wait to work together. #GP pic.twitter.com/EhS6b5jmdQ
— Audie A. Attar (@AudieAttar) February 11, 2020
“One thing I want everyone to remember is to always think positively. Never think negatively; that is the beginning of your downfall. Everything is possible.”
McGregor, who once held the UFC World lightweight and featherweight at the same time, immediately welcomed Pacquiao shortly after Paradigm’s announcement.
“Welcome to the team Emmanuel,” wrote McGregor, who said last month that he was close to signing a fight with Pacquiao, on his social media accounts.
Welcome to the team Emmanuel. https://t.co/VnFsahczo5
— Conor McGregor (@TheNotoriousMMA) February 11, 2020
Pacquiao’s (62-7-2) last two fights were with Premier Boxing Champions after he signed with adviser Al Haymon.
The 41-year-old icon, who is the only boxer to hold world titles in eight different weight classes, had a breeze unanimous decision win over Adrien Broner to retain the WBA’s “ordinary” welterweight belt in January 2019.
He then dominated Keith Thurman in July to win the Super title.