Boxing legend Manny Pacquiao departed Physical: Asia midway through the competition due to obligations in the Philippines. The eight-division world champion served as Team Philippines captain before leaving the Netflix series unexpectedly. Physical: Asia transforms the Physical: 100 format into an international competition featuring 48 elite athletes from eight countries, including South Korea, Japan, Thailand, Mongolia, Australia, Indonesia, Türkiye, and the Philippines. Episode 5, released November 4, showcased the season's first knockout round called Ball Stealing.The Physical: Asia installment saw Pacquiao compete in a 2-on-2 battle alongside Ray Querubin against Thailand's Superbon and James Rusameekae. Though Thailand won that round, the Philippines ultimately survived the death match. Shortly afterward, Pacquiao announced his departure, apologizing to teammates and viewers. CrossFit champion Justin Hernandez replaced him as the squad's representative. The boxing icon's exit stems from professional commitments outside the show.He recently returned to competitive boxing after four years away, facing WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios in July at MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. Additionally, Pacquiao accepted the Vice President position at the International Boxing Association. His dual roles in boxing administration and active competition likely created scheduling conflicts with filming demands.Manny Pacquiao’s departure from Physical: Asia explored View this post on Instagram Instagram PostThe Filipino icon addressed his exit with visible emotion."I have to leave the competition and return to Philippines because of another obligation in my home country," he explained.He apologized to his team and everyone watching, you could tell he meant it. Pacquiao said the goal was simple: to prove what Team Philippines could do. Even after losing, that competitive spark was still glowing. He admitted he really wanted to crush the challenges and was already thinking about what the next one might’ve been. Leaving wasn’t easy, you could see it in his face, but he still managed to smile and say he was proud to be part of the season.He expressed pride in representing his nation despite the abbreviated participation. Pacquiao's boxing career demands significant attention. He ended a four-year absence from the ring when facing Barrios this past July in Las Vegas.The match marked a major comeback for the 46-year-old fighter. His return generated substantial media coverage and required extensive training preparation. Beyond active competition, Pacquiao accepted an administrative role with the International Boxing Association. The Vice President position involves governance responsibilities and international travel. These dual commitments create substantial time constraints. Filming reality television while maintaining boxing condition and fulfilling organizational duties proved unsustainable. View this post on Instagram Instagram PostThe Physical: Asia production staff pursued Pacquiao persistently before securing his participation. Director Ho-gi revealed they contacted him repeatedly over an extended period."We really reached out to him often, many times," Ho-gi confirmed during a press briefing reported by The Philippine Star.The production team traveled to Pacquiao's Philippine home. They shared a meal prepared by the champion and observed his training regimen firsthand. Following dinner, they presented the show concept thoroughly. Pacquiao agreed that same day, excited by the opportunity to represent his country. His presence immediately elevated the competition's profile. Opponents from all nations reacted visibly when Pacquiao entered with Team Philippines in the opening episode.Justin Hernandez steps upJustin Hernandez assumed captain responsibilities after Pacquiao's exit. The CrossFit athlete brings diverse athletic credentials spanning triathlon, bodybuilding, and functional fitness. View this post on Instagram Instagram PostHe made history as the Philippines' first male CrossFit Games competitor. Hernandez has claimed four national CrossFit Open titles throughout his career. His bodybuilding background dates to 2009, culminating in a divisional victory at the 2014 Gemmalyn Crosby Sports Festival. He later coached at SkyHigh Fitness near Manila. Physical: Asia Episode 6 featured Hernandez competing in the Sack Toss Representative Match against Australia's Eddie and Korea's Amotti. The outcome remained unrevealed as the episode concluded, leaving viewers awaiting results when new episodes drop.Watch Physical: Asia streaming now on Netflix.