Manny Pacquiao eyes boxing, basketball academies in Dubai after bringing MPBL finals there

Manny Pacquiao met with the Dubai Sports Council before the start of the MPBL National Finals. Team Pacquiao
By Dugout Philippines

DUBAI—Boxing legend Manny Pacquiao met with key officials from the Dubai Sports Council (DSC) to explore opportunities for enhancing sports development and collaboration between the Philippines and Dubai.

The meeting took place at the Dubai Sports Council headquarters and was attended by His Excellency Saeed Mohamed Harib, Secretary General of the Dubai Sports Council, and His Excellency Sayed Hareb, Head of the DSC.

Also present were Nasser Aman Al Rahma, Assistant Secretary General of the Dubai Sports Council, Ali Omar, Director of the Events Department, and Khalid Al Awar, Director of Marketing and Communications at the DSC.

The discussions centered around bringing exciting new sports events and academies to Dubai, with a particular focus on boxing and basketball.

One of the key outcomes of the meeting was the announcement that the first two games of the 2024 MPBL championship will be held in Dubai, marking a historic milestone for the league's international expansion.

Both parties also discussed the potential establishment of boxing and basketball academies in Dubai, aimed at nurturing young talent and promoting sports development in the region. 

Pacquiao expressed his commitment to contributing to the growth of sports in Dubai and the UAE, emphasizing the importance of fostering talent and building a strong sports culture.

"We are excited about the prospects of working together with the Dubai Sports Council to bring world-class sports events and training programs to Dubai," said Pacquiao.

"This collaboration will not only strengthen the ties between our countries but also provide new opportunities for aspiring athletes."

The meeting concluded with a shared vision for the future of sports in Dubai, with a focus on creating lasting partnerships and inspiring the next generation of athletes.

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