(Reuters) — A Manny Pacquiao look-a-like creates a buzz in a Manila neighbourhood.
With boxing gloves in hand, Johnny Dagami has often been mistaken as the Filipino boxing champion.
A former factory worker, he has made a living from his appearance.
Together with his partner “Coach Freddie”, the two would practice their stunts around their neighbourhood, often drawing the attention of passers-by.
“I was very surprised when I saw Manny out here. It left my jaw hanging, but when I took a closer look, it was a different person. But it really surprised me when I thought it was Manny,” said tricycle driver Raffy Guadalupe.
Dagami’s impersonation career started in 2002 when people noticed how his facial features and voice closely resembled that of the Filipino boxer.
“I often see their expressions like ‘oh there’s Manny’ and some of them would rush to me for a picture or ask if I’m really Manny Pacquiao,” he said.
Dagami later partnered with his neighbour Romeo Jamero, who impersonates Pacquiao’s coach Freddie Roach.
“We become a duo, a singing comedian, what is that? I told him, let’s practice the acts of Manny and as Freddie, we can go to any kind of stage,” Jamero said.
The two appeared in various shows and served as opening acts for Pacquiao’s big events and parties.
Dagami said he had met Pacquiao several times and even played as his stunt double in a movie back in 2008.
With Pacquiao’s biggest match coming in a few days, Dagami said he was also preparing for a big performance at a luxury hotel in Manila where he will be singing and rooting for the Filipino boxer.
The fight on May 2 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas between Mayweather and Pacquiao is expected to be the highest grossing bout in history.
