Superstar athlete Manny Pacquiao is in for the fight of his life. His upcoming bout could spell the end or resurgence of his career. He speaks to tabloid! about his future and nagging bankruptcy controversies that he finally put a stop to.
How are your preparations coming along for your next fight?
Everything is good. I am not in my peak form yet, but that is the reason I started early so I can get back on track much quicker then pace my training for my fight in Macau in November. But I am also taking it easy as I don’t want to peak ahead of the fight.
What do you think are your chances?
I always keep a positive outlook in life, and always do my best. In my mind, I know I still have a few good years left in me, that is why I am trying my best to do this right. This fight will show that it’s not the end of the road for Pacquiao; it is possible that this could even be the start of my boxing career at a new level.
Is Pacquiao a ‘has been’?
Not yet, I hope [smiles]. There is nothing more that I can ask from boxing — it has given me everything. I only now want to fight for my country, for our honour. It is not easy getting on the ring, but I will do it for my people. That’s the only thing that motivates me — to restore our pride and dignity.
You made known your intent to run for the Philippine presidency at some point down the road. Is that still the plan, despite the many negative reactions?
Yes, that is still my intention. I believe I am capable and I know what it’s like to be poor, which is one of the major problems of the country. For me, it begins with a pure heart to serve the people, and the determination to succeed no matter the obstacles. Knowledge and experience are necessary and I have that; and will have more. It’s still far.
A story came out in the media alleging you are now financially bankrupt. Your reaction?
I don’t know how to say this in a way that will not be misinterpreted by anybody. We are not bankrupt, we have enough resources for our needs. I think the stories came about because we put our LA property on the selling block. That is only because we rarely use it and are planning to move to Beverly Hills. We regularly visit the US for business and leisure and it only makes sense for us to have a place where we can stay, especially since when we travel we do so with a lot of people. It is disappointing how some people can just think of stories to put us down.
