Boxing legend Manny Pacquiao is embarking on a new chapter in his storied career, joining the Team Boxing League (TBL) as an ambassador, future owner, and active fighter. The announcement, made on , signals a significant shift for the sport and a bold move for the fledgling league.
Pacquiao, the only eight-division world champion in boxing history, will initially serve as League Ambassador throughout the 2026 season, making appearances at select TBL events. Beginning in 2027, his role will expand dramatically as he joins the ownership group of the San Diego TJ’s, one of TBL’s expansion franchises. He will also compete as Team Captain and active fighter for the TJ’s, marking a return to the ring for the 47-year-old Filipino icon.
“I believe in the vision of TBL and what this league is building for the future of boxing,” Pacquiao said in a statement. “Team boxing brings a new level of excitement, strategy, and opportunity for fighters and fans. I’m proud to be part of TBL and look forward to contributing both inside and outside the ring.”
The TBL, founded in 2022 and holding its inaugural season in 2023, is pioneering a team-based ownership model in professional boxing. This format differs significantly from traditional boxing, where fighters typically operate as individual entities. Matches in the TBL consist of 24 three-minute rounds, with each competitor participating in one-round bouts. The league currently features weight classes ranging from 126 to 205 lbs for men, and 118, 126 and 140 lbs for women.
The San Diego TJ’s will join a growing roster of TBL teams, including the LA Elite, NYC Attitude, Philadelphia Smoke, Las Vegas Hustle, Miami Assassins, Houston Hitmen, Dallas Enforcers, Phoenix Fury, and Boston Butchers. The addition of Pacquiao and the TJ’s franchise is expected to significantly raise the league’s profile and attract a wider audience.
Kevin Cassidy, CEO of TBL Team Boxing League, hailed Pacquiao’s decision as a “defining moment” for the league. “Manny Pacquiao is one of the most respected champions in the history of boxing, and his decision to join TBL is a defining moment for our league,” Cassidy stated. “From ambassador to owner to active competitor, Manny embodies everything TBL stands for — elite competition, innovation, and a team-first mindset. His involvement accelerates our mission to reshape the future of professional boxing.”
Pacquiao’s commitment extends through 2029, encompassing seasons five, six, and seven of the TBL. This long-term investment from a boxing icon of his stature underscores the league’s potential and its ambition to establish a sustainable, team-oriented boxing ecosystem.
The move to team boxing represents a significant departure from the individualistic nature of the sport. The TBL’s format encourages strategic team composition and tactical adjustments between rounds, adding a layer of complexity not typically found in traditional boxing matches. The league’s structure aims to provide more consistent opportunities for fighters and create a more engaging experience for fans.
While details regarding Pacquiao’s competitive debut with the San Diego TJ’s are forthcoming, his presence is already generating considerable buzz. His unparalleled resume, global fan base, and proven leadership are expected to bring unprecedented credibility and momentum to the TBL as it continues its expansion. The league’s website, teamboxingleague.com, will provide further updates on Pacquiao’s involvement and the upcoming season.
The TBL’s innovative approach to boxing, coupled with the involvement of a legend like Manny Pacquiao, positions the league as a potential disruptor in the professional boxing landscape. Whether this team-based model will resonate with traditional boxing fans remains to be seen, but the league’s ambition and Pacquiao’s endorsement suggest a willingness to challenge the status quo and explore new avenues for growth within the sport.
