In what will be a Hong Kong first, Philippines boxing icon Manny Pacquiao is getting his own wax figure at the famous Madame Tussauds, the museum announced on Tuesday. The eight-time division champion has been making the news lately, most notably obtaining his university degree in political science last week and the Filipino great, who turned 41 on Tuesday, will get 2020 off to a fine start by having the museum honour him in the most memorable way.
Pacquiao – or specifically his wax figure – will join such luminaries as Canto pop star Andy Lau Tak-wah and Hollywood heartthrob Benedict Cumberbatch next year according to Madam Tussauds Hong Kong museum, which is located on The Peak. “Here’s a sneak peek of what’s to come this 2020. Let’s all welcome the newest addition to @madametussaudshongkong’s line-up of star athletes, boxing champ Manny ‘Pacman’ Pacquiao @mannypacquiao! Meet Manny’s wax figure soon. Stay tuned for more updates,” said the museum in an Instagram posting on Tuesday.
Pacquiao flew into town to have a “fitting” with workers and craftsman putting the finishing touches to the wax figure, which will be unveiled in the early part of 2020. It’s the first time Hong Kong has ever honoured the Philippines’ favourite son, but the museum understands the value of the boxer, who appeals to millions with many fans in Hong Kong.
Madame Tussauds Hong Kong senior marketing manager BoBo Yu expressed excitement in welcoming Pacquiao to the attraction. “The Philippines continues to be one of our strongest markets and having Manny Pacquaio who is known globally for his achievements in sports is an honour for us. He is one personality that the attraction has been wanting to have and we cannot wait for the Filipino fans to see the figure in 2020,” Yu said in a statement.
