Pacquiao’s son prepares for pro debut

Former champion’s eldest child faces another debutant Saturday in Temecula.

- JAD EL REDA

JIMUEL PACQUIAO has trained with one of his father's former trainers.

(ALEXANDER ACOSTA Manny Pacquiao Promotions)

Jimuel Pacquiao is ready to take the most important step of his career with his professional boxing debut Saturday in Temecula against fellow debutant Brendan Lally.

Manny Pacquiao’s eldest son will arrive at the Pechanga Resort & Casino (5 p.m, ESPN Deportes) after a long and sometimes uncertain process, but convinced that he is ready, at 24, to prove his future does not depend solely on the surname he bears.

During an open training session at legendary trainer Freddie Roach’s Wild Card Boxing Gym, Jimuel spoke about the importance of this debut, especially since the event also will mark the first card promoted by his father in the United States.

The environment, exposure and expectations could overwhelm him, but he seeks to remain calm and trust in his preparation.

“It’s my dad’s first show here in the United States, so it’s going to be good. I’m very excited. It’s also my professional debut, so I’m really looking forward to the day,” Jimuel said.

Adding to that excitement is an equally momentous personal event: He is about to become a father for the first time.

“We had our first baby girl, so that’s also on my mind. I want to get this win and go home to my family,” he said.