Netflix is gearing up for a star-studded clash of strength and skill. Athletes from around the world will compete, including Manny Pacquiao, Robert Whittaker, Superbon, and other international stars.
After more than three decades of proving his power inside the boxing ring, Manny Pacquiao still isn’t slowing down. From knocking out opponents to representing the Philippines in world-class matches, the People’s Champ has worn many hats in his legendary career. Now, he’s stepping into a new kind of battle. This October, Pacquiao will lead Team Philippines in Netflix’s upcoming competition series Physical: Asia, bringing his grit, speed, and leadership into the spotlight once again.
This star-studded season brings out national pride and team spirit, with 48 athletes from eight countries, including world champions, Olympians, and combat sports icons. And the stakes have never been this high.
Here’s Everything You Need to Know About ‘Physical: Asia’
If you’ve seen Physical: 100, then you already know the drill. Contestants face insane challenges that push them to their mental and physical limits. The goal is simple—be the last one standing and win the cash prize. The Korean reality series became a global hit, thanks to its intense competitions, wholesome sportsmanship, and memorable personalities that fans loved.
But this time, Netflix is taking things to the next level. Instead of individual players competing for themselves, Physical: Asia is shaking it up with a nation-versus-nation format. The new season features eight teams of six athletes each, representing Korea, Japan, Thailand, Mongolia, Türkiye, Indonesia, Australia, and the Philippines.
As the teaser puts it: “Eight countries will collide in a high-stakes competition of strength, strategy, and teamwork for nothing less than national pride.” That twist completely changes the game. In past seasons, competitors only had to look out for themselves. Now, one wrong move from a teammate could take the entire team down. Imagine training so hard for this, then seeing your squad eliminated because of a single mistake. Ah, that’s literally going to be brutal.
Producer Jang Ho-gi explained: “At its heart, the Physical series is about raw competition that transcends disciplines and generations. By bringing national pride into the equation, the battles will be more intense, more emotional, and more unforgettable than ever.” And looking at the roster, that statement is no exaggeration.
Meet the Teams for ‘Physical: Asia’
Each country is bringing its best athletes into the arena, with national icons leading the way. Korea will be represented by UFC pioneer Dong-hyun “Stun Gun” Kim. He’ll compete alongside Olympic skeleton gold medalist Yun Sung-bin and Amotti, the winner of Physical: 100 Season 2. Australia is sending former UFC middleweight champion Robert Whittaker, also known as “The Reaper.” Japan will field MMA veteran Yushin Okami. Thailand comes in strong with Muay Thai superstar and ONE featherweight kickboxing champion Superbon.
Mongolia’s squad is led by wrestling champion Orkhonbayar Bayarsaikhan. Türkiye relies on four-time oil wrestling champion Recep Kara. Indonesia brings in bodybuilder Igede Dharma Susila, known as “Igedz Executioner.” The Philippines is led by boxing icon Manny Pacquiao, joined by a powerhouse roster: Filipino-American sambo athlete Mark Mugen, strongman Ray Jefferson Querubin, rugby player Justin Coveney, hurdler Robyn Lauren Brown, and CrossFit athlete Lara Liwanag.
As revealed by Netflix, Physical: Asia will go beyond modern athletic contests. The show will also highlight cultural heritage, mixing combat sports, track-and-field events, and traditional competitions like Korean ssireum, Mongolian wrestling, Turkish oil wrestling, and Muay Thai. It’s not just about brute strength. The series will celebrate individuality, culture, history, and national pride on a global stage.
Premiere Date and How to Watch
Physical: Asia is set to premiere worldwide on Netflix this October. With eight countries, 48 athletes, and nonstop challenges, the series is shaping up to be one of the most exciting reality competitions of the year.
The only question left is: which country will bring home the crown? Will Korea defend its reputation as the birthplace of the franchise, or will a new champion rise and claim the title? Team Philippines is fired up and ready, but every squad is coming in with world-class athletes and national pride on the line.
Well, one thing’s for sure: the competition will be fierce and emotions will run high. Fans will scream, cheer, and maybe even shed a tear. Mark your calendars, get ready to binge, and back your team when the first episode drops this October.
