Eumir Marcial draws inspiration, guidance from Pacquiao

The three Filipino fighters on the undercard of Manny Pacquiao’s upcoming comeback in Las Vegas are gaining valuable insights from the former eight-division world champion.

Eumir Marcial, Jerwin Ancajas, and Mark Magsayo have been training with Pacquiao during morning runs—absorbing not only his advice but also his winning mindset.

Marcial, the Tokyo Olympics bronze medalist, is set to face American Alexis Gaytan in an eight-round bout on July 19.

Recently, while observing Pacquiao at the Wild Card Boxing Club, Marcial received tips on delivering powerful left-handed punches and left the gym with newfound knowledge. “I never imagined I would fight on the same night as my idol,” said Marcial, who boasts a 5-0-0 record with three knockouts.

Since arriving in Los Angeles over a month ago, Pacquiao has focused on training for Mario Barrios and has welcomed the young fighters into his routine—whether running at Griffith Park or working out in the gym.

Gaytan presents a challenge for Marcial as he looks to rebound from an early exit in the Paris Olympics. The American holds a 17-10-0 record. Ancajas and Magsayo are also making the most of training alongside Pacquiao, further sharpening their preparations.

For Sean Gibbons, the collaboration between Pacquiao and the younger Filipino fighters is a rare opportunity to blend youthful energy with generational wisdom.

“There’s a unique blend of youthful energy and the experience that Manny Pacquiao brings. He’s not just preparing for his own comeback—he’s helping guide the next generation of Filipino champions,” Gibbons shared.

As Pacquiao gears up to potentially become the oldest welterweight champion in history, the spotlight is also shining on the Filipino trio poised to make waves on his undercard—learning from the best in their pursuit to become the next.