Filipino boxing champion Manny Pacquiao is back in the Philippines after his heartbreaking defeat via unanimous decision against American Floyd Mayweather Jr.
Pcaquiao told the reporters who welcomed him at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 2 that he remains the People’s champion, insisting that he won against Mayweather in the May 2 “Fight of the Century.”
Surprised with the unanimous decision of the judges, the Filipino boxer believes he won two points over the American boxer.
“I watched the fight several times. I scored it and I believe I won by two points against Mayweather. But we have to accept the decision,” said Pacquiao.
Pacquiao who had a surgery to repair the torn rotator cuff in his right shoulder, was wearing a shoulder sling.
“I won’t change weight division. I won… In the hearts of the people I won.”
Following Mayweather calling him “coward” and a “sore loser”, Pacquiao refused to fire back.
“I refuse to comment on that. If I fire back I would stoop to his level,” he said.
The lawmaker also appealed to Filipino boxing fans about “crab mentality” pointing out to the negative comments he received from some of his countrymen for his shoulder injury.
“They should show that they are real Filipinos. We should not practice crab mentality. If you are a Filipino, you should support your fellow Filipino,” he said.
Meanwhile, when asked about his desire to be the president, the Saranggani congressman said presidency is not on his mind for now.
H/T: ABS-CBN News; and screen grab photo