Manny Pacquiao, the six time world champion boxing titleholder, has been a punching bag ever since he gave an interview to the National Conservative Examiner in which he said gay marriage is against the will of God.
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Manny said of Obama’s endorsement of same-sex marriage:
“God’s words first … obey God’s law first before considering the laws of man. God only expects man and woman to be together and to be legally married, only if they so are in love with each other.
It should not be of the same sex so as to adulterate the altar of matrimony, like in the days of Sodom and Gomorrah of Old.”
Since his comments, more rumors have emerged implying that Manny also said gay people should be put to death!
Manny has responded to the allegations, saying he does not believe gay people should be put to death and blames the media for twisting his words about his stance on gay marriage.
The Examiner article includes a reference to Leviticus 20:13, which says gays “must be put to death.” But now the journalist who conducted the interview is admitting Pacquiao never specifically referenced that bible verse.
Pacquiao released a statement:
“I didn’t say that, that’s a lie … I didn’t know that quote from Leviticus because I haven’t read the Book of Leviticus yet. I’m not against gay people … I have a relative who is also gay. We can’t help it if they were born that way.”
However, Manny did confirm that he’s against same-sex marriage:
“What I’m critical off are actions that violate the word of God. I only gave out my opinion that same sex marriage is against the law of God.”
The backlash will probably hit Manny in his pockets, as one of his biggest sponsors, NIKE, has been a proponent of marriage equality.
The Courage Campaign has now launched a petition calling on Nike to drop Manny for his offensive remarks, urging the company not to let its pro-equality reputation be tarnished by such a negative role model.
But it doesn’t end there, according to Manila Bulletin and a statement from Manny’s adviser, Michael Koncz, the boxer meant no harm by his remarks.
He implied, however, that Manny perhaps did reference the “put to death” Leviticus verse:
Koncz: Manny was asked about same-sex marriages and he quoted a verse from the Bible to drive home a point. He did not wish ill will on anybody.
Manny’s PR is in full motion today, as the boxing champion will continue to face criticism over his anti-gay remarks.
