Jimuel Pacquiao targets first win in February bout after draw debut

Fresh off his professional debut in late 2025, Emanuel “Jimuel” Pacquiao Jr., son of Manny Pacquiao, is set to return for his second bout in February.

Pacquiao Jr. will compete on the undercard of the rescheduled WBO International Featherweight title fight between Elijah Pierce and Lorenzo Parra. The event is slated for February 28, 2026 (March 1 in Manila), at the Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, New York.

“We are pleased to announce the second promotional card from MP Promotions, featuring a rescheduled bout between Viva Promotions' Elijah Pierce and Lorenzo Parra competing for the WBO International Featherweight Championship,” the official announcement read. 

“Additionally, the card will showcase top American prospect Curmel Moton in a special attraction, alongside Emmanuel Pacquiao Jr. in his second professional match.”

Jimuel made his pro debut in November 2025 against fellow newcomer Brendan Lally.

After four rounds in the lightweight division, the two battled to a majority draw after one judge scored the contest for Pacquiao Jr. while the remaining two saw it as even.

Reflecting on his performance, Jimuel acknowledged the steep learning curve of the pro ranks during a post-fight media scrum:

“Could have done better. For the next time, I'm definitely pushing it more. Now that I've experienced it, I see it's different from the amateurs. I only had about 10 amateur fights, so this is a big step. Next time, I'm definitely pushing it harder.”

While the elder Pacquiao admitted he expected more from his son's first outing, he also noted that the bout provided Jimuel with the kind of grit and experience necessary for a successful professional career.

—JKC, GMA Integrated News