Manny Pacquiao is a congressman in his home country of the Philippines, as well as a national icon. So when Super Typhoon Haiyan ravaged his homeland, it was very difficult for Pacquiao to remain in training and not lend his hand in aid.
In a statement, Pacquiao apologized to his people and dedicated his upcoming fight to those suffering back home. "I really want to visit the area and personally do what I can to help our countrymen who have suffered so much in this terrible tragedy. But I'm in deep training for a crucial fight so I regret I cannot go."
His statement continued, "I will send help to those who need it the most, and I enjoin all of you to pray for our country and people in these trying times." Pacquiao's adviser Michael Koncz echoed Pacquiao's sentiments, and said he played a role in maintaining Manny's focus on Brandon Rios.
"Manny's desire was to go to that area and to visit them and lift the spirits," Koncz said. "But we have the most important fight of his career. His heart and prayers go out to the survivors and the victim's families. Absolutely, he is dedicating this fight to the victims of this."
While Rios, a hungry brawler, has said to Pacquiao's face that his intent is to batter him into retirement, Pacquiao has exuded confidence throughout the buildup to this clash. Pacquiao's trainer Freddie Roach has openly stated his fighter is looking to score an impressive knockout that will place Pacman back in the pound-for-pound conversation, and potentially pressure Floyd Mayweather Jr. into finally fighting him.
His camp has also been trouble free since letting go of strength coach Alex Ariza. Ariza clashed with Roach, and is now helping to train Rios.
"It's been one of the best camps I can remember. No tensions within -- everyone dedicated to our jobs and working hard," Koncz said. "Manny's in the best physical condition he can be in. His mindset is on showing the world he can still compete to the highest level.
"The fans are going to be in for a fight, for a treat. If Manny sticks to the game plan, I truly don't believe the fight is going to go more than four or five rounds."
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