See historic visit at the Capitol
If boxing icon Manny Pacquiao were to star in a new film, perhaps the title would be “Mr. Pacquiao Goes to Washington.”
As we all know, the PacMan has done it all–in the ring, on the stage, and on the political floor as a boxer, singer/actor and Congressman of Sarangani province.
Now you can see a special video and pics from today’s visit to Washington, DC, a “pit stop” during the fighter’s media tour to tout his May 7 bout against “Sugar” Shane Mosley, promoted by Top Rank and airing on Showtime PPV. And yes, the “Chatter Box” has noticed that Manny (a Justin Bieber fan?) is still sporting his long and shaggy “Bieber Fever” hairstyle that had tongues wagging last week.
Embarking on a cross-country tour that began in Los Angeles and included stops in Las Vegas and New York the boxing superstar looks like he scored a “KO” as he addressed the media with U.S. Senator Harry Reid. The Nevada Senator and the Filipino hero exchanged their homeland’s flags during Pacquiao’s historic visit to the U.S. Capitol. The eight-time world champ was also scheduled to meet President Barack Obama later this afternoon.
In this video sent to me by a Congressional staffer, you will see the fighter with his promoter Bob Arum and their wives as they tour the hallowed grounds.
The popular slugger is seen accepting a framed United States flag. This “Stars and Stripes” keepsake was flown over the nation’s Capital and presented to the Pinoy power puncher as a special gift. In return, the boxer–who went from poverty to superstar status through the sweet science–was happy to give Senator Reid a red, blue, yellow and white national flag of his beloved Philippines.
While today’s event took place on Capitol Hill, amidst politicians a plenty, Pacquiao is still known more for boxing than for his current political career. Winning unprecedented championships in eight different weight classes, Manny remains at the very top of boxing’s reigning elite.
Rumors abound that he will eventually run for President of the Philippines, after he hangs up his gloves. Politics aside, whether you are a Democrat, a Republican or any other political stance in between, the boxing ring knows no race, color or creed–or political affiliations. Just two guys letting their fists talking.
PacMan will be back in the ring at the MGM Grand on May 7–but on this day, wearing a suit and tie, Congressman Pacquiao stood proudly on the steps of Capitol Hill.
View the Senator Reid and Congressman Manny Pacquiao’s meeting here: