As an actor who has spent time in Los Angeles and NY I?ve been exposed to a variety of celebrities whether it be through work, within restaurants, or some event. As a society, we definitely idolize those celebrities who are successful within or outside of our own professions. I personally put people such as President Obama or George Clooney within this category due to the way they carry themselves. I?ve met celebrities who I?ve liked in the media, but in person turned out to be the complete opposite. The latter doesn?t apply to Manny Pacquiao.
About a month before the Joshua Clottey/Manny Pacquiao fight took place, I read an article that stated Freddie Roach was opening up his gym to the fans for one day only. One day only this time, because this training camp was shorter than the norm. I?m not the type of person who waits in long lines just to see celebrities, but Manny Pacquiao was an exception (see attached photo).
I arrived early in the morning to find a long line of Pacmaniacs who just wanted to shake their hero?s hand.
When I walked through the doors of the Wild Card Gym, Pacquaio was sitting on a bench in front of the ring signing gloves or taking pictures with fans. Here was a man who had a long line of fans outside into the street. A man who showed no signs of impatience or weariness. A guy who showed genuine appreciation for each and every fan. Here is someone on a political campaign trail at the time simultaneously training hard for a fight and he has the time and patience for tons of fans. A guy who was in the midst of steroid accusations and probably was asked a million times about it that day.
Aside from his boxing success, here is a guy with humble beginnings who doesn?t just talk the talk, but backs it up by his actions. Thanks for remaining humble amidst all of this success, Pacquiao. Congrats on a great year and your contribution to not just boxing, but society.
