What’s the reaction of celebrated boxing mom Jinkee Pacquiao as she personally watched his eldest son Jimuel fight for the first time?
“Nakangiti, pero pinipigilan lang umiyak. First time kong mapanood ang anak ko lumaban (namumula na mata),” said Pacquiao in a Facebook post, along with photo that says it all.
Behind her smile were the fear, tension and tears that wouldn’t fall. In the end, it was a mother’s love and support that prevailed.
“Thank you Lord sa panalo na ibinigay mo sa anak ko,” added Jinkee, wife of Philippine boxing icon, former eight-division world champion Manny “The Pacman” Pacquiao.
“Jimuel, I’m so proud of you! I will always be here for you. I love you, son!,” she continued.
It was Thursday night (Saturday Manila time) when Jimuel, 21, won via unanimous decision over Dylan Merriken in a three-round bout in Montebello, California, US.
The younger Pacquiao rebounded from an earlier loss to Chris Smith and improved his amateur record to four wins against a loss.
Also providing moral support at ringside of the Quiet Cannon Conference and Event Center were Jimuel’s female siblings Mary Divine Grace and Queen Elizabeth.
Jinkee promised that the whole family will watch Jimuel’s next fight.
“Next time lahat na kami manonood sayo! Kasama na si @mannypacquiao @pacquiao.michael and @israel.pacquiao. We love you so much!”
Jimuel is training under Filipino Marvin Somodio at the Wild Card gym owned by Freddie Roach, his father’s long-time trainer.