Filipino boxing champion Charly Suarez said he would like actor Eman Bacosa Pacquiao to portray him if his life story is made into a film, hoping it would inspire young athletes and ordinary people to overcome challenges.
In an interview with Manila Standard Entertainment, the 37-year-old boxer said he wants his story to show that no challenge is impossible to overcome.
“I want to be an inspiration not only to athletes but to ordinary people who dare to dream big,” he said in Filipino.
Suarez added that he preferred a “humble beginning” for the film, showing how he achieved his dreams in a way many could relate to.
“I’m okay with anyone playing me, but Eman is talented and is already trying showbiz. He’s fit to do it in case it really happens,” he said. “I want it to show the humble start and how I reached my goals.”
Meanwhile, Suarez, the number one WBO junior lightweight mandatory challenger, is awaiting the outcome of his formal grievance challenging the sanctioning of the upcoming Navarrete–Nunez world title unification fight.
Last May, Suarez faced Emanuel Navarrete of Mexico in a controversial match that ended in a no-contest decision. Seven months later, Suarez and his team—managers Luis Chavit Singson and Rick Navalta and coach Delfin Boholst—remain hopeful for a rematch.
Navalta said the team would not accept a step-aside fee and wants the fight to happen in the ring.
“We started seeing social media posts indicating there might not be a rematch and that Navarrete could fight Nunez instead. We decided to inquire about the status,” he said.
The team formally filed a grievance with the WBO on Dec. 8 and is waiting for the review.
“Charly is the number one mandatory contender, and they should honor that. We want to make sure his rights as mandatory challenger are observed,” Navalta said.
Suarez, a three-time Southeast Asian Games gold medalist, continues to train extensively despite the uncertainty. The WBO has confirmed it will review the grievance.
