Manny Pacquiao gives up cockfighting and gambling – Boxing news
Manny Pacquiao, the first eight-division world champion, has reportedly given up cockfighting and gambling to pursue his role as goodwill ambassador for the Catholic Church.
Moreover, the WBO Welterweight Champion says he will be giving up other intemperance as well.
Currently, Pacquiao is among the richest men in Philippines. He is a politician, a professional boxer and an icon for the Filipinos. He also reported that he has sold shares he had held in a casino, nightclub and bar.
He asserted, “I am no longer in the vice business. I've sold my shares in a big nightclub along with my shares in a Manila casino outlet. I realise I was a weak person before. If I had died I believe my soul would have ended in h**l. I had faith, but I was
doing things which were against the will of God.”
According to sources, the Filipino champion, who is now on the road to redemption, owned more than a thousand roosters for cockfighting. On an average, all his roosters were worth $700,000.
Not only Pacquiao, but also other icons of the Philippines are involved in cockfighting since it is a national blood sport of the nation. The sport is all about roosters fighting with each other to death with sharp metal spurs on their beaks and talons.
The boxer enjoyed the sport but now he is out of it. According to the Pac-Man, now his only remaining hobby is basketball.
Since his start, Manny has been a religious person claiming God is behind his success of winning 54 fights with only 3 losses and 2 ties. He is also a member of the Philippines parliament. It seems like now the Filipino icon is more into religion than he
has ever been before.
On his way to salvation, the Filipino cited, “I have found my real peace and happiness now. I draw strength and inspiration from reading and hearing the word of God. With all humility, yes, I am accepting the daunting task.”
According to sources, Manny, his family and his friends gather everyday at the champion’s residence to recite biblical phrases and pray to God.
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