Manny Pacquiao post-fight locker room interview

MACAU – Manny Pacquiao spoke to journalists inside his locker room immediately after his fight. Pacquiao thanked everyone for their prayers and support and dedicated the win to the victims of typhoon Yolanda. “I’m so happy nagkaisa tayong lahat mga Pilipino.” (I’m so happy that we came together as Filipinos)  

On his failure to knock Rios out he said he wanted to avoid rushing and being complacent. Pacquiao says he was prepared for Rios but was also hurt by some of his power punches. “Talagang sa umpisa pa lang gusto kong (i-counter) siya ng solid battle. Malakas na suntok para pwede kong mapatapos. Nung nasalo niya mga suntok ko, sabi ko, matibay to.” Pacquiao says the fight was pressure filled following his two previous losses. He says he is happy that he was able to, “rise again.”

(From the start I wanted to counter with solid battle. Powerful shots to end the fight early. When he was taking my shots, I told myself, this guy is tough.”)

Watch the interview here:

Pacquiao’s coach Freddie Roach was obviously happy with his star pupil’s win. He had no doubts about which fighter he wanted Manny to fight next, “whoever said Manny was out of his prime, that is b******t. We’re back. Mayweather is next.”  

– Rappler.com