Boxing icon-turned-politician Manny Pacquiao was invited to speak before the prestigious debating society of Oxford University, Oxford Union.
Pacquiao has accepted the invitation and will be flying to London on November 3 to speak at the oldest university in the UK which was founded in the 12th century, reported PhilStar.com.
Oxford Union secretary Tom Brown forwarded the invitation to Pacquiao from Oxford Union President Stephen Horvath.
Brown said that it “would be an honor” to invite Pacquiao and talk about “his career, both about his epic boxing journey and his career in Filipino politics”.
The report also stated parts of Horvath’s invitation to Pacquiao which reads: “Your strategic brilliance and your remarkable speed make you a truly legendary fighter. We would be delighted to hear more about how you stood above the characteristic trash-talking of big fights to stay focused on winning. You have applied this determination and endurance to your political career as well, overcoming an initial setback in your first election to become a widely-popular and respected Senator.
“At a time where there is such international interest in the politics of the Philippines, our members would be intrigued to hear more about your views on President Duterte and the war on drugs. On top of your success in politics and boxing, it is impressive that you are so involved in basketball as a player, owner, and coach. We would be truly honored to host you and learn from your immensely rich life.”
Many well-known personalities and historical figures have spoken in front of the Oxford Union.
Some of them include scientist Albert Einstein; former US Presidents Ronald Reagan, Jimmy Carter, and Bill Clinton; Saint Teresa of Calcutta; former UK Prime Ministers Winston Churchill and Margaret Thatcher; former U.S. Secretary of State Madeleine Albright; and former US Senator Robert Kennedy.
Horvath said that Pacquiao’s visit to the university will continue the “fine tradition” of Oxford Union to host “world leaders in various fields”.
