Manny Pacquiao remembers the time as a child that ultimately formed him as a man and made him the fighter he became.

Boxers are a special group of people. Often coming from the harshest of backgrounds, it’s hard to say one story stands out over the years in particular.

But if there where one for sheer poverty and overcoming adversity alone, in the most extreme of conditions, Manny Pacquiao would probably be up there on most people’s list.

Pacquiao never forget those times, though.

Not did he forget about his native Filipino people when he reached the heights he did as a professional sports man after them.

Famed for his kindness, Pacquiao has literally donated tens of millions to help build houses in his home country for those less fortunate over the years.

Now as his career starts to wind down, he remembers this week the tough times as a child he experienced that got him to where he is today.

Speaking on Instagram he said:

“I remember as a little boy I ate one meal a day and sometimes slept in the street. I will never forget that and it inspires me to fight hard, stay strong and remember all the people of my country, trying to achieve better for themselves.”

An incredible rags to riches story that will live long into the history of boxing, long after he’s gone: