Mayweather on Pacquiao’s gay comments: ‘Let people live their lives’

MANILA, Philippines – Floyd Mayweather Jr came out swinging against Manny Pacquiao over the Filipino boxer and Sarangani representative’s scathing disapproval of gay marriage.

Pacquiao, an 8-division boxing champion, two-term congressman and current senatorial candidate, has drawn worldwide ire by comments he made in a political interview where he said gay couples were “worse than animals.”

Pacquiao trended on Twitter last night, February 16, as condemnation of his statements grew. 

“I feel like we should stay positive and we should let people live their lives the way they want to live their lives. To each his own,” Mayweather, who defeated Pacquiao by unanimous decision in May 2015, told TMZ Sports. 

A front page story by Philippine Star today referenced a derisive pun on Mayweather’s name, claiming that Pacquiao’s toughest fight would come against “gayweather.”

Leonard Ellerbe, CEO of Mayweather Promotions and long-time Mayweather associate, commented on the matter on his Twitter account: “Can you imagine if Floyd would have made those comments. There are so many double standards with the media.”

Can you imagine if Floyd would have made those comments. There are so many double standards with the media.

— Leonard Ellerbe (@LEllerbe) February 16, 2016

Pacquiao initially doubled down on his statements, citing scripture in an Instagram post as justification for his views. “I rather obey the Lord’s command than obeying the desires of the flesh,” Pacquiao wrote on his Instagram account, before issuing an apology in a video on his social media accounts.

“I’m sorry for hurting people by comparing homosexuals to animals. Please forgive me for those I’ve hurt,” said Pacquiao. (WATCH: Pacquiao apologizes for calling gay couples more disgusting than animals)

Pacquiao (57-6-2, 38 knockouts) is currently training in General Santos City, Philippines for what he says will be his final fight against Timothy Bradley Jr on April 9. – Rappler.com