Anton Tabuena
Manny Pacquiao has new management.
Last January, prior his win over Donald Cerrone, Conor McGregor said that “we’re actually close to signing Manny (Pacquiao). He didn’t elaborate much at the time, but about a month later and we now know what he meant.
As announced by both parties, Manny Pacquiao has now signed with Audie Attar and Paradigm Sports Management.
“I am proud to partner with Paradigm Sports Management and am excited for the opportunities that Audie Attar and PSM have to offer,” Pacquiao said on the announcement. “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.”
Attar also announced it on social media, posing with the Filipino boxer, while wearing the nation’s traditional Barong Tagalog outfit. He notes that he will be working closely with Team Pacquiao and the boxer’s other colleagues in the Philippines.
Incredibly proud to announce that @ParadigmSM is officially representing Manny Pacquiao. I’d like to thank everyone involved in this, including our partners Arnold, Ping, Atty Brando, Jayke and the rest of Team Pacquiao back in Manila. Cannot wait to work together. #GP pic.twitter.com/EhS6b5jmdQ
— Audie A. Attar (@AudieAttar) February 11, 2020
The legendary eight-division boxing champion, will be joining the same management team that also has McGregor as their biggest client, and the Irishman has already sent out his regards online.
Welcome to the team Emmanuel. https://t.co/VnFsahczo5
— Conor McGregor (@TheNotoriousMMA) February 11, 2020
While McGregor previously teased a potential bout with Pacquiao, this could very well just be strictly about managing the Filipino’s career and helping him get more opportunities — especially outside the Philippines. Paradigm of course, also manages several other fighters, and being under the same management team doesn’t really mean they’re going to fight each other.
Their website lists clients such as UFC champ Israel Adesanya, Cris Cyborg, Stephen Thompson, Gunnar Nelson, and several more.
Pacquiao, now 41-years-old, has won three straight, and five out of his last six bouts. His only loss in the last half decade is a highly disputed decision to Jeff Horn in 2017.