Manny Pacquiao is an international sports icon for more reasons than his boxing talent. His generosity, friendliness, and outgoing personality endears him to fans. Most people can tell that he has a good heart. They can see that when he gives away prizes on his game show, it’s not for good publicity — it’s because he enjoys helping others.
But if you doubted Pacquiao’s kind nature, your feelings likely changed if you saw episode 1 of Manny Pacquiao-Juan Manuel Marquez 24/7.
In the show, Pacquiao is seen sparring with 26-year-old lightweight Jorge Linares. Linares lost last weekend to Antonio DeMarco at Staples Center in Los Angeles, and Pacquiao was ringside to watch his training buddy. Following the 11th round TKO, Pacquiao entered the dressing room where he told Linares he was broken hearted over the loss.
Pacquiao then hugged Linares, whose bloody face left a stain on Pacquiao’s shirt. Linares pointed out the stain he left on Manny’s shirt, but Pac Man dismissed it. As a guy who had to beg for food on the streets in the Philippines, Manny is not influenced by material possessions. He offered some encouragement for Linares before departing.
His actions may not seem like much, but just from that brief moment you can tell what kind of person Manny is. He’s a gentle creature who participates in a violent sport. He sometimes refuses to finish his opponents if he feels they’ve taken too much punishment. And when he sees a person about whom he cares losing in the ring, it breaks his heart.
