Manny Pacquiao raised his hand in tragic circumstances thirty years ago.
No discussion surrounding the all-time boxing greats can take place without mentioning Pacquiao, the only fighter in history to win twelve world titles across eight different weight divisions.
Before Pacquiao won his first world title in 1998 by coming from behind to knock out Chatchai Sasakul, ‘PacMan’ had begun to make a name for himself with an impressive early career run in his native Philippines.
But the future great of the sport was not alone. Eugene Barutag was by his side for nine professional fights. But tragedy struck in Manila, three decades ago when the two shared a card.
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Manny Pacquiao won his tenth professional fight moments after his friend’s tragic death in the ring
Pacquiao’s tenth professional fight came on this day, December 9, in 1995. That date in the Filipino’s career stands out because of the tragic circumstances surrounding his win.
Pacquiao was watching one of his best friends compete just before he won Rolando Toyogon by unanimous decision. They were street kids from General Santos who escaped poverty. City Pacquiao had promised to help Barutag in his quest to create a successful career in boxing.
2025-12-09 19:00:00
