(ThyBlackMan.com) Manny Pacquiao is one of the famous boxers of all time. He is eight time champion and has fought some of the great boxers like Bradley, Marquez, and many more. Aside from being a successful boxer, he also represents the Sarangani Province in the Philippines’s House of Representatives. He seldom shows up for legislative duties, which has drawn criticism from his constituents.
The popular boxer is again facing controversy making disparaging comments about the LGBT community (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender). This has caused him to lose his contract with Nike, one of the major sports apparel brands in the world. Manny Pacquiao is running for a senatorial seat. He was interviewed by 
TV5 about his point of view regarding same sex marriage. His answer goes like this “It’s just common sense. Have you seen any animal having male-to-male or female-to-female relations? Animals were better because they recognize gender differences. If you have male-to-male or female-to-female (relationships), then people are worse than animals.”
His offensive remarks were criticized not just by Filipinos but people from all across the globe, especially popular celebrities and personalities. In attempt to console the people, Pacquiao issued an apology for his choice of words but stressed that he is still against same sex marriage. Manny is a born again Christian, a religious affiliation that does not support same sex marriage.
Bob Arum, Manny Pacquiao’s promoter is against his statement. Arum said, “What he’s saying is diametrically opposed to what I believe.” Arum’s opinion is totally different to that of Manny. He said that he is in favour of gay rights and same sex marriage. “I’m apologetic personally to the gay movement in the United States,” he further added.
A few hours after Manny Pacquiao’s statement becomes viral, Nike issues a brief statement indicating that the company is severing its ties with Manny over his offensive statement. The company no longer want to do any business dealings with him. Nike issued a statement, “We find Manny Pacquiao’s comments abhorrent. Nike strongly opposes discrimination of any kind and has a long history of supporting and standing up for the rights of the LGBT community.” It is not the first time that Nike drops its endorsers because of controversies. Manny respects the decision of Nike and is now looking for new endorsers for his upcoming fight.
Staff Writer; Shawna Brown
