Boxing legend Manny Pacquiao has officially joined Paradigm Sports Management, the same firm that handles Ultimate Fighting Championship’s biggest draw, Conor McGregor.
The former eight-division world champion, who is coming off a split decision win against Keith Thurman, said in a press release on Tuesday he is excited for the new opportunities that the partnership with PSM will offer.
“I am proud to partner with Paradigm Sports Management and am excited for the opportunities that Audie Attar and PSM have to offer,” the Philippine senator stated.
“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.”
Under the deal, Pacquiao’s business manager Arnold Vegafria, associate Ping Nepomuceno, and attorney Brando Viernesto are set to join forces with McGregor’s long time management team, which could pave the way for a potential crossover fight between the two combat sports stars.
Maximizing Pacman’s Career
Paradigm Sports Management has taken to Twitter to announce the development, saying the firm aims to maximize Pacquiao’s historic boxing career.
The Filipino fighter remains as the only boxer in the history to hold a title across eight divisions.
“We’re very excited to announce that Manny Pacquiao has signed with PSM for full service representation!”
“Manny is one of the greatest boxers of all time & we look forward to working with Arnold, Ping and the rest of the team back in Manila to maximize his historic career.”
Paradigm president and CEO Audie Attar echoed the same sentiment.
“I’m honored to have the opportunity not only to maximize Manny’s boxing career but to help him continue to leave a legacy he is proud of through the lens of business and sport,” he said.
“My approach is to focus on each client and their goals always, and I look forward to fighting on his behalf.”
Crossover Fight
Shortly after the announcement, the former UFC two-division champion welcomed Pacquiao to the team.
McGregor recently returned to the cage after 15 months of hiatus as he finished Donald Cerrone just 40 seconds into the first round of their UFC 247 main event welterweight clash.
Following the victory, the Irishman has been linked to bigger fights for his next outing including a crossover bout opposite Pacquiao.
“There have been talks about the Manny fight,” he told ESPN.
“There was an offer made on that… just not yet, but it’s a possibility.”
“I will box again, I will win a boxing world title. I love boxing and I’m damn good.”
(Featured Image Source: Instagram/ Conor McGregor and Manny Pacquiao)