Manny Pacquiao. AP FILE PHOTO
GENERAL SANTOS CITY – World boxing eight-division champion Manny Pacquiao credited his diehard fans all over the world for his successful ring comeback in November against Mexican-American slugger Brandon “Bambam” Rios.
“Their undying prayers and support served as inspiration to me. That’s why I did my best to bounce back from a knockout loss last year,” Pacquiao told the Inquirer in a mobile phone interview.
During the 5th Annual “On The Ropes” Boxing Awards, Pacquiao bagged the “Comeback Fighter of the Year” plum for his methodical conquest of Rios.
“I owe my success to God, family and multitude of fans around the world. God and family give me strength. Fans serve as motivation for me during rigorous training. I always strive hard to win so as not to disappoint them,” Pacquiao said.
The Filipino ring icon also thanked OTR for choosing him as Comeback Fighter of the Year.
In choosing Pacquiao, OTR Boxing Radio stated in its website, “When it comes to this award there was one name that stood far above the rest. Coming off a 6th round KO defeat at the hands of Juan Manuel Marquez, many wondered if Manny Pacquiao would ever be the same fighter again. Once his return was announced, and that he would be facing Brandon Rios, some thought the match up could be dangerous and the wrong type of fight for Pacquiao’s return.”
On Nov. 26, Pacquiao taught Rios a boxing lesson by dominating the fight from the opening bell to the finish, winning almost every round of the classic 12-round ring duel held in Macau, China.
OTR further said: “He (Pacquiao) proved that he was not only back, but also still a force to be reckoned with in the welterweight division.”
The Pinoy ring sensation said the award will serve as added inspiration for him as he tries to earn more victories in his succeeding ring exploits.