The Greats in Philippine Boxing

To name the greats in Philippine boxing is not an easy task. Boxing is a sports with long history. For more or less a century now, Filipino boxers have shown the world spectacles their unique greatness. A definitive assessment, therefore, is a disservice to their diverse accomplishments. The honor they bring to our motherland is beyond measure. Bear in mind that these great Filipino boxers existed in different era. In addition, boxing analysts from past to present quibble on what universal parameters to use. And, the sports of boxing is both protean and dynamic. Without further adieu, here is a short-list of Filipino pugilists who made big names in professional boxing.





1. Manny "Pacman" Pacquiao



He was born on December 17, 1978 in Kibawe, Bukidnon. At the age of 16, he started his professional boxing career. He's the first Filipino and Asian boxer to won 4 world titles in 4 different weight division. Currently, he's the best pound for pound boxer in the world. He's the first Filipino billionaire athlete. Also, he's the first athlete who appeared on a postage stamp.



2. Gabriel "Flash" Elorde



Born on March 25, 1935 in Bogo, Cebu. After winning a world title in 1960, he successfully defended it for more than seven years. Being the longest reigning world junior lightweight champion, he's the first Asian pugilist inducted into the New York based International Boxing Hall of Fame. Also, he was enshrined into World Boxing Hall of Fame.



3. Francisco Gulliedo (Pancho Villa)



He was born on August 1, 1901 in Ilog, Negros Occidental. In 1923, he became the first Filipino and Asian boxer who won a world title in boxing. After becoming world flyweight champion, he successfully defended his title several times until his untimely death at the age of 23. He was belatedly inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame.



4. Luisito "Lindol" Espinosa



Born on June 26, 1967 in Manila, Philippines. He started his professional boxing career in 1984. Five years later, he became world champion. Considered as the golden boy of Philippine boxing. In 1995, he's the first Filipino boxer who won 2 world titles in different weight division.



5. Gerry "Fearless" Penalosa



He was born on August 7, 1972 in San Carlos City, Negros Occidental. In 1989, he began her professional career in boxing. He became world super flyweight champion in boxing in 1997. After 10 years, he won his second world title this time in bantamweight division.