I am always intrigued by the rich and famous who dedicate so much of their time and money to those less fortunate. Their offerings vary and their projects can be diverse, but in the end, they share one thing in common: generosity of spirit. While many people with money splurge on ridiculous luxuries, others understand that what they have is a gift best shared with others. One such person is boxer Manny Pacquiao. (1)

Boxer With Generous Spirit

I don’t know much about boxing, and in fact find it kind of scary. However, I did have a friend who held major boxing parties to celebrate the sport, including matches featuring Philippine-born Pacquiao. Many would argue he’s the best boxer on earth, and maybe in history. However, others recognize him for something more than his boxing skills, they praise him for his generosity. (1)

Boxer Holds 12 Major World Titles

His skills in the ring have led to sold-out matches. He has 12 major world titles but none of it made him forget his roots. “I became a fighter because I had to survive,” says Pacquiao. “I had nothing. I had no one to depend on except myself. I realized that boxing was something I was good at, and I trained hard so that I could keep myself and my family alive.” (1)

Pacquiao might be rich and famous now, but he comes from very humble beginnings. Born in 1978 he was one of six children parented by a single mom. His dedication to his family first began when he dropped out of school when he was just 14 to help provide financial support for his mom and siblings. (1)

Boxer Since Age 16

By the age of 16, Pacquiao was boxing professionally. Even when he lost, he made some big bucks, earning $1.5 million in 2015 when he fought Floyd Mayweather Junior. That money went to good use, with a large donation made to build 1,000 homes in the Philippines.  (1)

“I feel what they’re feeling because I’ve been there,” he says. “I’ve slept in the street. That was my life before. So hard. That’s why I feel what they’re feeling right now.” (1)

Boxer Switches To Politics

His generosity attracts people who gather around him in the hopes they might be one of his causes. It isn’t uncommon for him to hand as much as 1000 pesos to individuals in need. Now a senator, he is giving back to his community and country. He started out as a congressman in 2007 with political aspirations to help those in need. His focus now is fighting poverty. (1)

“As I went around my country, I realized there were so many people who need help, who look up to me for inspiration,” he says. “And because of their trust and confidence, I now represent my people’s interests as a senator.” (1)

Boxer Fighter In The Ring And Out

Pacquiao doesn’t only put his fighting skills to use in the ring. He now sees his inner fighter can be used to help those in need. “There is a fighter in each and every one of us,” he said. “As I share my story, I can only hope that I help you discover that gift, so that you can become that person who will soon inspire others to win their own battles.” (1)