Rey Saludar, who has emerged as the country?s latest boxing hero after winning a gold medal in the Asian Games, does not plan to turn professional despite knowing that it is in the pro ranks where wealth and fame reside.
He does not have to look far for inspiration in this regard, Manny Pacquiao being the embodiment of what boxing success as a professional can bring.
But Saludar also knows Pacquiao is unique and a boxer who comes along just once in a lifetime.
So he has set his sights on what he believes is more attainable: an Olympic gold medal. ?Wala akong balak mag-pro,? he said during an interview at ABAP gym at the Rizal Memorial complex yesterday where he dropped by to greet and thank his teammates and coaches.
He said he understands the complexity and the luck involved in having a successful pro career.
?Doon (professional) kasi, swertihan lang. Depende sa hahawak sayo,? said Saludar. Talk about his future was the topic among reporters who interviewed him following his impressive performance against a Chinese boxer in the final of the flyweight division in the Guangzhou Games.
Many regarded his win as one of the best bouts and Filipino boxing officials plan to pull all the stops to prepare Saludar for the 2012 London Olympics.
Crucial for his bid to win the country?s first Olympic gold medal is the training and exposure of the Philippine team.
But he?s willing to drop everything and sacrifice more in order to end the long search for the coveted gold medal.
?Ang goal ko lang ay makatungtong sa Olympics at manalo doon ng gold medal,? said Saludar.
An Olympic gold medal will probably translate to even more riches for the simple guy from Polomolok, South Cotabato whose big family includes 13 siblings.
As it is, his Asiad gold has made him an overnight millionaire, pocketing a total of P4 million — P3 million from boxing patron Manny Pangilinan and P1 million from the Philippine Sports Commission.
Saludar said he plans to build a house for his parents with the money het got from the Asian Games.
?Ibibigay kong tulong sa pamilya ko. Magpapatayo din siguro ako ng bahay para sa kanila,? he said.
His younger brother, Vic, who won a bronze medal, has also been rewarded ? getting P500,000 from ABAP and P100,000 from the PSA.
Saludar said he came to the Asian Games without expectations.
?Noong bata pa ako, sumasali ako sa mga pa-tournament sa plaza doon sa General Santos. Kaya masaya ako na nanalo ako sa Asian Games,? said Saludar.
Aside from Vic, his brother Froilan is now trying his luck in the professionals.
