Pacquiao returns to Manila after 'last fight'

MANILA, Philippines – Newly retired world boxing icon Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao returned to Manila on Thursday morning, four days after his supposed last bout in Las Vegas.

Pacquiao, welcomed by Filipino fans, arrived at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 1 at 5:01 a.m. on board PR 103 flight from Los Angeles. He was accompanied by his wife Jinkee and their children.

From the airport, Pacquiao went straight to a press conference and welcome breakfast at the Dusit Thani Hotel in Makati City and later on conducted a motorcade around 8:30 a.m. with route headed to Novotel in Araneta Center, Cubao, Quezon City.

Reports said Pacquiao began his speech by asking his fans if they already took breakfast or lunch and expressed gratefulness for their prayers and supports throughout his boxing career. He also mentioned that he is content with all his achievements in the boxing industry and apologized to the fans whom he disappointed over his retirement.

The 37-year-old boxer closes his doors to boxing for now and dismissed the clamors to pursue his fighting. He maintained that he is already firm with his decision to retire.

Pacquiao also conducted his motorcade at around 8:30 am from the Dusit Thani Hotel to Novotel at the Araneta Center in Cubao, where he is also scheduled to attend a luncheon, passing by Quiapo Church and Timog Avenue. He also met Miss Universe Pia Wurtzbach.

On Sunday (Manila time), Pacquiao knocked down American boxer Timothy Bradley to a unanimous decision of 116-110 during their WBO welterweight title boxing match at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, Nevada, making it twice victory over Bradley. This was his 58th fight.

Throughout his career, the only-eight division champion, Pacquiao, had 38 knockouts and only six defeats.

Pacquiao, a boxer turned solon, will return to campaign after his fight with Bradley as he is also seeking for a senatorial seat in the May 9 polls. He said he prioritizes helping the Filipino people.