Pacquiao-Bradley rematch begins

Manny Pacquiao. AFP FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines – Filipino ring legend Manny Pacquiao entered the ring to a chorus of cheers while undefeated American Timothy Bradley were met with boos in their grudge match Saturday (Sunday in Manila) at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

Entering first being the challenger, Pacquiao, wearing a robe donning the Philippines’ colors, was all smiles as he jogged his way to the ring while Bradley, the WBO welterweight champion, hardly smiled as he made his walk.

Katy Perry’s hit song “Roar” once again was the tune as Pacquiao made his ring walk. Hit rap song “All I do is win” was blaring as Bradley made his way to the ring.

American Idol 11 finalist and Filipino-Mexican recording artist Jessica Sanchez sang the Philippine national anthem for the third time before a Pacquiao bout while Grammy winner and actress Ashanti sang the US national anthem.

Pacquiao unofficially came in to the fight at 151 pounds while the defending WBO welterweight champion Bradley was at 152 after both fighters tipped the scales at the official weigh-in Friday (Saturday morning in Manila) at 145 pounds.

The two fighters meet again after their first encounter ended in controversial fashion with Bradley winning via split decision two years ago.

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