Manny Pacquiao vows ‘real fight’ vs DK Yoo

FILE–Boxing legend Manny Pacquiao and South Korean YouTuber DK Yoo during a press conference. –MARK GIONGCO

MANILA, Philippines—Don’t expect Manny Pacquiao to pull punches against South Korean martial arts YouTuber DK Yoo in their upcoming charity fight.

While Pacquiao and Yoo signed up for an exhibition on December 11 at Korea International Exhibition Center (KINTEX) in Goyang, South Korea, the Filipino boxing legend promised a fight just like old times.

“I am very thankful for this opportunity and excited for the exhibition,” Pacquiao said during a press conference in Seoul as posted on The Korea Times. ”The fight is real. We will try to knock each other out. That’s why we need to work hard.”

Pacquiao had previously said he plans to remain retired but that could change depending on his performance against Yoo.

“It depends. We will see the result on December 11”, Pacquiao said when asked about a potential return.

The exhibition will have six two-minute rounds with both fighters using 10-ounce gloves.

The 43-year-old Pacquiao officially called it quits in September 2021 just a month after he suffered an upset to Cuban Yordenis Ugas in a welterweight title bout.

Part of Pacquiao’s proceeds in his match against Yoo will be used to provide shelter for the poor and homeless families as part of his Pacman Village projects.

Pacquiao, boxing’s only eight-division champion, is also set for another exhibition against his former sparring mate Jaber Zayani in February 2023 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.