NEWLY crowned World Boxing Council (WBC) super featherweight champion Manny Pacquiao returned home to a hero's welcome Monday morning and declared he is moving up in weight and invading the lightweight ranks.
Pacquiao and his entourage arrived at around 6:30 a.m. at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport aboard Philippine Airlines (PAL) flight PR 103. The Filipino boxing sensation was joined by his wife Jinky and their children in the warm welcome ceremonies prepared by officials at the airport where a short press conference was also held.
The 29-year-old Pacquiao came home eight days after capturing the super featherweight title via a split decision win over Mexican Juan Manuel Marquez in a brutal and bloody 12-round championship showdown in Las Vegas.
Although he did not rule out a possibility of a third meeting with Marquez, Pacquiao said he is training his sights on the 135-pound division.
Pacquiao said he might fight WBC lightweight king David Diaz next, but reiterated that nothing is definite yet.
Pacquiao and Marquez also fought to a classic draw back in May of 2004.
Shortly after his arrival, Pacquiao and his team proceeded to the New World Renaissance Hotel in Makati for a brief rest, then went to the historic Quiapo Church in Manila to hear Mass amid a throng of supporters welcoming him.
On Wednesday, Pacquiao is scheduled to fly home to his native hometown General Santos City, where welcome rites and a parade also await the ring idol.
