Chalk another major supporter for Manny Pacquiao in the upcoming Mayweather vs. Pacquiao mega-fight on May 2 at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Rasheda Ali, daughter of ‘The Greatest’ Muhammad Ali, has just disclosed that her father is choosing to side with the Filipino boxing icon in the so-called ‘Fight of the Century,’ reports CBS Sports.
Ali’s daughter said that her Dad is Team Pacquiao all the way. The boxing great also believes that the Pacman has what it takes to finally give Mayweather the first loss in his professional boxing career right on his 48th fight.
Rasheda added that while his 73-year-old father, who is suffering from Parkinson’s Disease, will not be able to watch the fight at ringside in the MGM Grand Garden Arena, he would sure be watching it like most of us and perhaps the rest of the world too.
A huge fan
According to Ali’s daughter, “The Greatest” really likes Manny Pacquiao. More than being a great fighter and his superb skills in the ring, Ali reportedly likes the eight division world champion because of what he does outside the ring.
Ali has become a huge fan of Pacquiao for his kind and generous heart and also for being God-fearing and soft-spoken.
Rasheda added that her dad is also aware that the Pacman has put up a Manny Pacquiao Fund to provide help to the underprivilege people in the Philippines. ‘The Greatest’ likes Pacquiao for being such a charitable but still being down-to-earth person.
Like Ali in the past, Pacquiao stood for things he believes in and makes a living to make a difference not just in his life or his loved ones but also for others. And that’s what endears him to most people including ‘The Greatest’ whose famous ring taunt is ‘fly like a butterfly and sting like a bee.’
Politically and socially active
Muhammad Ali is also very close to the heart of many Filipinos and the Philippines since he fought Joe Frazier in the country back in 1977 during the “Thrilla in Manila.”
Even after he retired from his illustrious boxing career, Ali remained active in the political and social scenes. He was responsible for the release of four hostages in Lebanon back in 1985. In the Gulf War in the early 90s, Ali was also responsible for the release of 15 American hostages. He also personally greeted Nelson Mandela when the South African leader was released from prison.
Back then, Ali said that he wanted to be more than just a great boxer. More than being a three-time world heavyweight champion, he wanted to use his fame and reputation to inspire other people around the world. His daughter also refused to compare his father with Floyd Mayweather Jr. by simply saying that Ali stood for things.