Beckham in town, roots for Pacquiao

MACAU – The first time they met, football great David Beckham gifted boxing icon Manny Pacquiao with his soccer jersey.

That was two years ago when Pacquiao watched Beckham and his LA Galaxy play the Philippine Azkals in a friendly at the Rizal Memorial Stadium.

After the match, Beckham took off his jersey and handed it to Pacquiao, who then gave it to his wife, Jinkee.

Yesterday, Beckham set foot at The Venetian Hotel here for a promotional gig of the boxing superstar’s tieup with Las Vegas Sands.

Mediamen and VIPs filled the room.

Beckham talked about his partnership with the owners of The Venetian. Then he faced a question regarding Pacquiao.

“It’s obviously one of the reasons why I am here. I am a huge fan of Manny. I met him a few years ago in the Philippines when I was there. He is truly an inspiration for all of us,” said Beckham.

Beckham is aware of the tragedy that struck the Philippines a couple of weeks ago, and said it gives more importance to Pacquiao’s fight against Brandon Rios.

Pacquiao said he’s dedicating the fight to the countless victims of Super Typhoon Yolanda back home. In fact, he said he plans to fly home right after the fight to be with his countrymen.

“I have spoken to him and I know how much this fight means to him, this weekend especially with everything that has happened to the Philippines the past few weeks,” said Beckham.

 It’s easy to guess whom Beckham is rooting for here.