As the big fight draws closer (72 hours and counting), and I make every effort to keep you informed of goings on; there’s this inspirational story about the Pacman that his trainer narrated that shows how his resilience has gotten him so far in life.

Pacquiao grew up as a street urchin in Manila, the Filipino capital. He has risen from that and extreme poverty to become one of the greatest boxers who ever lived, as well as a consummate politician back home.

His trainer Freddy Roach told Yahoo the heartbreaking story of his rise- highlighted by the facts he turned professional at 14, he used to sell doughnuts to survive, and that he ran away from home when his father ate his dog.

“Manny ran away from home after his father ate his dog.

He lived on the street, where he bought doughnuts at a doughnut store and then sold each one for a nickel more to survive.

He slept in a cardboard box. He fought his way through all this, turned pro at 14, and look at the man he is today.

The Philippines is a poor place, there’s no welfare, no health system and if you don’t have a job or money then you do anything to survive.”

It hasn’t been an easy road for the Pacman, but he made it. And this Saturday, no matter what happens- both boxers are leaving as proud men and future hall of famers- the best boxing has to offer.

Note to dads though, don’t eat the family pet. Or do, it just might spur your son on to greatness.