Manny Pacquiao / Getty Images

Manny Pacquiao Eyes a New Competitive Challenge Outside of Boxing, Faces Fighters in Upcoming Netflix Show

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Michael Aldon | Last updated Sep 19, 2025 7:24 PM ET

Netflix’s hit show, Physical: 100, took the world by storm with its inaugural season in 2023, captivating global audiences by pitting elite athletes from different backgrounds against each other in grueling challenges designed to test the limits of human strength and endurance. The show’s second season, released in 2024, further solidified its status as a breakout hit, breaking into the Top 10 rankings in over 80 countries.

Now, the franchise is evolving with its most ambitious installment yet: Physical: Asia, which shifts from individual competition to a nation-versus-nation format. For combat sports fans, there will be a few familiar faces among the recently revealed cast.

This new chapter features 48 athletes from eight countries, including combat sports icons like boxing legend Manny Pacquiao, former ONE Muay Thai champion Superbon, former UFC champion Robert “The Reaper” Whittaker, and former UFC fighter Kim “Stungun” Donghyun, who will all battle for national pride in a series of high-stakes physical trials.

Manny Pacquiao, the only eight-division world champion in boxing history, headlines Team Philippines, bringing his legendary power, speed, and indomitable spirit to the competition.

In an Instagram post shared by Hypebeast, fans were beyond excited to see his inclusion alongside fellow combat sports athletes:

“I hope one of the events is a 3 pt shootout. Senator Manny should kill it.”

“Superbon by devastating headkick.”

“Manny out here doing sidequests.”

“Sick line up. Excited to see Manny and Whittaker.”

“Reaper!”

“Hell yeah, Bobby Knuckles.”

“Is that Robert Whittaker? Omg that’s so unfair.”

“If I see Manny, I’m quitting, I don’t care if it’s bowling.”

Unlike previous seasons, which focused on individual survival, Physical: Asia introduces a team-based elimination format where one member’s failure results in the entire team’s exit. The challenges will likely require more teamwork, strategy, and mental resilience rather than raw physical attributes.

With the premiere set for October 2025, anticipation is building for what will be the franchise’s most globally inclusive installment yet.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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