—Manny Pacquiao made his way to the ring to Katy Perry’s “Roar.” And roar the spectators did every time he connected. And judging by Rios’ bruised face, they surely came by the hundreds.
—Jessica Sanchez, the Fil-American AI runner-up, scored a rare feat in boxing by singing the national anthem of both the Philippines and the US with admirable gusto.
—Guess who were shown on the giant screen watching the Pacquiao-Rios fight at ringside? Miguel Cotto, Ruslan Provodnikov, David Beckham and Paris Hilton. Who got the loudest cheer? It’s a draw for the last two.
— “His best punch was his quickness, nothing more.” — Brandon Rios, when asked what was Pacquiao’s best punch.
— “Boxing is not about killing people. It’s about entertaining people.” —Manny Pacquiao, when asked why he seemed to fold up in the 12th and final round when he had Rios on the ropes.
— “Manny fought a perfect fight that’s why he won. Rios can’t handle Manny’s speed.” — coach Freddie Roach.
— “He’s a great person. We have seen the best Manny Pacquiao today.” —Robert Garcia, Rios’ trainer.