Manny Pacquiao named his favorite active fighter in a July 2026 interview, singling out Japan’s Naoya Inoue for his blister‑fast footwork and lethal combinations. The eight‑division champion praised Inoue’s style, noting the Japanese star’s ability to control opponents and land clean, balanced punches.
Who did Pacquiao praise?
In the Vibe interview, Pacquiao was asked which current boxer he enjoys watching most. He answered without hesitation: “I love to watch Inoue. Yeah, Inoue, the Japanese guy.” The Hall of Famer went on to explain that Inoue’s speed and footwork set him apart, even recalling a pre‑championship conversation where he advised the younger fighter on the importance of movement.
Why does Inoue stand out for Pacquiao?
Pacquiao highlighted footwork as the foundation of a great boxer. “When you have footwork, you can control your opponent. You can properly throw your combination punches without losing balance,” he said. Inoue’s recent record backs that claim – he defended four super‑bantamweight belts in May with a unanimous decision over the unbeaten Junto Nakatani at the Tokyo Dome, drawing a crowd of roughly 55,000.
What does this mean for Pacquiao’s legacy?
Even as Pacquiao continues to headline main events, his endorsement of Inoue signals a veteran’s respect for the next generation. Both fighters share a reputation for explosive combos and aggressive tactics, yet Pacquiao still believes his own style remains unique. By publicly supporting Inoue, Pacquiao positions himself as a mentor‑like figure, reinforcing his influence beyond the ring.
How might this affect Inoue’s next steps?
Inoue is slated to face Jesse Rodriguez in what is expected to be his final bout at super‑bantamweight before moving up one more weight class. Pacquiao’s praise could add extra hype to that showdown, drawing fans who remember Pacquiao’s own rise through multiple divisions. The matchup promises a clash of footwork mastery and power, echoing the qualities Pacquiao admires.
What’s next for Pacquiao?
While Pacquiao hinted at more main‑event appearances, he also expressed a desire to stay involved as a commentator and advisor. His comments on Inoue suggest he will keep watching and weighing in on emerging talent, offering insights that blend his fighting experience with a veteran’s perspective.
How does this shape the sport’s narrative?
Pacquiao’s endorsement adds a layer of validation to Inoue’s claim as the sport’s pound‑for‑pound leader. It also bridges two eras—Pacquiao’s historic eight‑division reign and Inoue’s current dominance—creating a storyline that fans and promoters can market worldwide.