Filipino boxing icon Manny Pacquiao failed to knockout Timothy Bradley but his victory by unanimous decision was enough for Negrenses to re-affirm their confidence in his punches as he got back the WBO welterweight title he lost to Bradley two years ago.

Bacolod City Rep. Evelio Leonardia, who once again carried the Philippine flag in yesterday’s blockbuster fight at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, Nevada, said Pacquiao “has proven what prayers and determination can do – from the shadows of doubt cast by his questionable defeat two years ago.”

“Manny Pacquiao has risen to prove he reigns supreme in the World Boxing Organization welterweight division,” Leonardia said.

Pacquiao’s victory, the Bacolod solon said, was significant, not only because he reclaimed the title but it was Bradley’s first defeat in his boxing career.

“The people of Bacolod, who never left his side even in defeat, share in the pride and glory of Pacquiao’s latest achievement. May this be a lesson in determination and faithfulness, of sticking together through victory or defeat, thick or thin,” Leonardia said.

The Bacolod congressman has been a member of the Team Pacquiao since 2005 and was at ringside in 15 of his fights, including the two where he lost against Bradley and Juan Marquez.

Unlike some people who quickly disappeared when Pacquiao lost, Leonardia said he stayed on because “that is what true friends are for”.

‘DISAPPOINTING’

On the other hand, while he saw it as a redemption for Pacquiao, Bacolod City Mayor Monico Puentevella said yesterday’s rematch between Pacquiao and Bradley was “a very disappointing fight.”

“Bradley didn’t come to fight at all but it was a clear redemption for Manny. Next in line is Marquez who has to win his own next fight. Then Vegas mafia will finish the script with the biggest purse of the century. Mayweather-Pacquiao fight,” Puentevella said.

He added that Pacquiao’s win uplifts the spirit of the Filipino nation during this Lenten season.

‘WORLD CLASS’

Negros Occidental Gov. Alfredo Marañon Jr. also joined the nation in celebration another triumph for the Filipino boxing champion.

“Once again, Pacquiao bannered the world class brand of Pinoy athletes. His win against Bradley was no doubt a well-deserved victory,” the governor said.

Meanwhile, Bacolod City Councilor Carl Lopez said Pacquiao had once again displayed his world class skills that earned him the respect of the global boxing aficionados as evidenced by a full house MGM Grand Arena.

The win against Bradley improved Pacquiao’s win-loss record to 56-5 with two drawn. Bradley now carries a record of 31-1, with 12 knockouts.

MOMMY D.

Aside from the Pacman, another Pacquiao captured the hearts of the boxing world yesterday with her display of unrestrained devotion to her son’s boxing career.

Dionisia Pacquiao, also known as Mommy D among Filipino boxing followers, was caught on camera wildly cheering on her son from the ringside and later, hugging Bradley after the fight.

A vocal critic of her son’s opponents, inside and outside the ring, Dionisia had attributed her son’s successful boxing career to their strong faith in God.*NAB

back to top