Jimuel eyes turning pro

MANILA, Philippines — Jimuel Pacquiao is set for his second US appearance as an amateur boxer in a special attraction of Tom Loeffler’s 360 Promotions’ Hollywood Fight Nights at the Montebello Country Club, Los Angeles, on May 12 and coach Marvin Somodio said he’s showing up ready to make an impression.

“Right now, I’m totally focused on boxing,” said Sen. Manny Pacquiao’s 21-year-old son who’s been based in LA for nearly nine months.  “Everything else is on hold. I miss my family and friends back home but this is my dream. I’m hoping to turn pro when the timing is right.” Somodio said there’s no timetable to join the pro ranks and it will depend on his development.

“’Di siya nagmamadali,” said Somodio. “Darating ang panahon na pwede na siya mag-pro. Masipag at matalino si Jimuel, walang absence sa training. Kailangan pa niya ng experience. Mga pros ang ka-sparring niya at so far, maganda ang kaniyang pinapakita. Malaki ang potential niya na ma-develop ang lakas at speed. Sa umpisa, nag-isip ako baka ‘di niya kaya at pagalitan ako ni Senator kung mabugbog siya sa sparring. Pero kaya niyang tumanggap. Sabi niya sa akin, I love boxing.”

Last March, Jimuel made his US debut, beating Andres Rosales on points. “I was nervous,” said Jimuel. “I didn’t expect a lot of people watching. There’s pressure because I carry my Dad’s name but I’ll do my best to be myself. After the fight, my Dad and I spoke on the phone and he congratulated me. He advised me to work on my speed and footwork. Every time we speak, we talk about boxing. I run at Griffith Park and train at Wild Card like my Dad. I love what I’m doing and I’m committed to work hard to improve.” Somodio said he’s excited to work with Jimuel, a junior welterweight. He trains other fighters like regular WBA welterweight champion Eimantas Stanionis and lightweight Mercito Gesta but always makes time for Jimuel.