Promoter Sampson Lewkowicz, the man credited with discovering an unknown talent named Manny Pacquiao in the Philippines in 2000, proudly announces the signing of Pacquiao’s second cousin, Jonel “The Kid Pacquiao” Dapidran to a long-term promotional contract.

17-year-old Dapidran (6-0, 3 KOs) is an undefeated lightweight prospect from Digos City in the Philippines. Manny Pacquiao’s maternal grandfather and Junel’s father are brothers.

“A San Francisco attorney named Sydney Hall brought Manny Pacquiao to my attention 15 years ago,” said Lewkowicz. “None of the major promoters paid attention, but we saw what a talent he was. I was working as a matchmaker for (then promoter) Murad Muhammad, and I convinced him to sign Manny and bring him to America. Now, as a promoter, I am bringing his close family here for the first time and I strongly believe this young man will make a big statement in our sport.”

Dapidran is in good hands. As soon as his visa is finalized, he will live in Las Vegas, sharing a beautiful apartment with former multiple world champion and fellow Filipino, Jonriel Casimero. He will also share a trainer with Casimero and join the stable of trainer Jun Agrabio.

“Jonel has the talent to become a star. I see it in him like I did with his cousin. He is coming here to prove to everyone he is a Pacquiao for the new generation of boxing. I am very happy to be his promoter and will work hard to help him rise through boxing the right way.”