MANILA, Philippines - On November 14, the Filipino population will be divided into those who will be sleeping in on a Sunday as per usual, and those who will be glued
to their TV screens watching with bated breath as Manny Pacquiao fights Antonio Margarito for the WBC Super Welterweight World title.
Of course, it goes without saying that more than majority will belong to the latter.
No doubt, every time Manny Pacquiao clinches a win, he also fills his countrymen with pride. His story, from being a poor boy from General Santos City to one of the most respected names in boxing, has inspired millions of people worldwide.
This is exactly what famed sports brand Nike had in mind when they created their latest Manny Pacquiao line of apparel and footwear. This is not the first line they have made for Pacman, but the Nike design team says that it is the first which emotionally connects him to his fans.
The new line contains images that are very symbolic and personal to the Pacman himself. For instance, his meteorite tattoo on his left forearm is prominently used on the Dri-Fit T-shirts, hoodies, training sneakers and boots which he has been using during his training sessions and will be wearing during the upcoming match. The meteorite represents speed, power, and destruction, alluding to Pacquiao’s punching power.
“We noticed that he loves his family and his countrymen. We worked with Manny for 18 months and even went to the Philippines,” says Stephen Clifton, product director for Athletic Training. “It’s this innovation and superior storytelling through the product which sets it apart.”
The Dri-Fit T-shirts are available in three designs, all representative of aspects of his personality and life. The first T-shirt has the famous meteorite tattoo, while a Bruce Lee-inspired movie poster featuring Pacquiao graces the second one, referencing his epic fights. The third T-shirt is emblazoned with the word Respect, which the boxer has earned from both opponents and fans through years of hard work and affects how he conducts himself.
“Nike likes to work with the best athletes because their high intensity challenges the team to innovate,” the designers shared. They figure out what the athlete wants and what will work because the product ultimately affects the athlete’s confidence and performance.
Product director for footwear Zac Bromert said that the team was able to make improvements to the ring boot, making it lighter and more stable. “Everything starts with your feet; it’s where you get your power, so we want to make sure he’s at his best.”
The Nike Trainer 1.2 sneakers, which also have the meteorite and Manny Pacquiao’s logo, come in two styles: a red on black pair and a limited edition gold on white. According to Nike, the versatile gold trainers will be worn by all members of Team Pacquiao.
“I feel very comfortable with the new shoe,” said the Pacman himself of his new ring boots. “They’re perfect for my feet and for the fight.”
And they’ll certainly will be perfect for all the fans this champion has worldwide. With the popularity Manny Pacquiao has been gaining over the years, this new line will be a great reminder of how far the boxer has come from his humble roots.
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The new Manny Pacquiao collection will soon be available at all Nike stores nationwide.