Pacquiao ‘Comeback Fighter of the Year’

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GENERAL SANTOS CITY, Philippines–Manny Pacquiao was named “Comeback Fighter of the Year” at the 5th Annual “On The Ropes” (OTR) Boxing Awards for his methodical conquest of Mexican-American Brandon Rios.

“I owe my success to God, family and the 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 told the Inquirer in a mobile phone interview.

In choosing Pacquiao, OTR Boxing Radio said on 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 in 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 12-round ring duel in Macau.

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.”-Aquiles Z. Zonio, Inquirer Mindanao