Millions danced in the streets and a national holiday was announced by Philippines President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo to mark the latest victory of the island nation’s great 21st-century hero: boxing great Manny Pacquiao. The fighter also known as “Pac Man” won in a knockout, beating British boxer Ricky “the Hitman” Hatton on May 2 and becoming the International Boxing Organization and Ring Magazine World Light Welterweight champion. It was a world record-tying sixth division title and fourth consecutive win in a different weight class. All that plus a 49-3-2 record are why some may think of him as the best fighter of a generation.

The man who used to sell donuts and ice water on the streets transformed his humble beginnings into world stardom, and near-legendary status in his home country. While carrying the weight of the Philippines on his shoulders in the boxing ring, Pacquiao has also made his marks in politics, business and acting. He can even carry a tune: check out his singing on YouTube.

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