Bad News: Manny Pacquiao’s Mother Dionesia Dapidran Passes Away at 76, Family Announces Urgent Update from Kibawe, Philippines
Kibawe, Philippines, The boxing world is plunged into mourning as the family of Manny Pacquiao has announced urgent and heartbreaking news from Kibawe, Philippines, just 30 minutes ago: the legendary fighter’s mother, Dionesia Dapidran, has passed away at the age of 76. The announcement, shared through a tearful statement on Pacquiao’s official social media, reveals that Dionesia succumbed to complications following a severe stroke that struck last week, the same health crisis that led to Pacquiao’s withdrawal from his scheduled July 19 bout against Mario Barrios at the MGM Grand Garden Arena. Fans worldwide are devastated, flooding platforms with tributes to the matriarch who shaped the “Pac-Man” into a global icon, while the sport braces for the emotional toll on the eight-division champion.
Dionesia, a beloved figure known for her vibrant presence at Pacquiao’s fights and her own resilience—having raised him in poverty in Kibawe—suffered the stroke on July 6, as initially reported by local sources. Her condition deteriorated rapidly, leading to her hospitalization in Manila, where she passed earlier today. The family’s statement confirmed her death, noting, “She fought bravely, just like Manny, but her battle has ended.” This loss comes at a critical juncture, with Pacquiao, 46, already grappling with the decision to step back from the ring to be by her side, a choice that has now turned into a permanent farewell. The timing, just days before the planned fight, amplifies the tragedy, leaving fans questioning the future of his comeback.
The news has sparked an outpouring of grief online, with messages like “Rest in peace, Mama Dionesia” and “Manny’s strength came from her” dominating social media. Dionesia’s influence was undeniable—her emotional ringside reactions and unwavering support were a fixture in Pacquiao’s 62-fight career, including his 39 knockouts. Her death follows a week of uncertainty after Pacquiao’s announcement on July 10, when he cited her health as the reason for pulling out, a decision that drew respect from Barrios, who said, “Respect, sadness, but life prevails.” Now, that sadness has deepened into loss, with the boxing community rallying around Pacquiao, who remains in Manila with his wife Jinkee and children.
Local authorities in Kibawe, where Dionesia was born and raised, are coordinating with the family for funeral arrangements, expected to draw a massive turnout given her status as a national figure. The cancellation of the Barrios fight—set to be a Premier Boxing Champions pay-per-view event—leaves the sport in limbo, with no immediate word on rescheduling. As Pacquiao mourns, questions linger about his career trajectory, with some fans hoping this tragedy might inspire a return to honor his mother’s memory, while others fear it could mark the end of his ring journey. The paddock watches with heavy hearts, captivated by a story that blends triumph, loss, and the unbreakable bond between a champion and his roots.
