Manny Pacquiao has dedicated his comeback fight against Brandon Rios to “his people” after Typhoon Haiyan killed more than 2,000 people and affected hundreds of thousands more in his native Philippines.
The national hero believes the best way to bring hope to the victims is to defeat Rios and as he needs to focus on his training, he will not visit the devastated areas until after his fight in Macau on November 24.
In a statement to his people, the 10-time world champion (above) said: “I really want to visit the area and do what I can to help our countrymen who have suffered so much in this terrible tragedy.
“But I’m in deep training for a crucial fight so I regret I cannot go. I will send help to those who need it the most in these trying times.”
Pacquiao’s adviser, Michael Koncz, said: “His heart and prayers go out to the survivors and the victim’s families. Absolutely, he is dedicating this fight to the victims of this.”
