Boxing: Manny Pacquiao Apologizes for Saying Gay People Are ‘Worse Than Animals’

Manny Pacquiao has once again come under fire from the gay community after making inflammatory remarks in a recent interview on the Filipino station TV5.

In a video which has since been taken offline, Pacquiao said that those who support gay marriage should look to the animal kingdom.

“Woman was made for man, man was made for woman. It’s common sense,” said the 37-year-old boxer. “Will you see any animals where male is to male and female is to female? The animals are better. They know how to distinguish.

“If we approve male on male, female on female, then man is worse than animal.”

Once the video spread throughout social media, a firestorm of criticism ensued, with the LGBT community among the loudest. At first, the eight-division world champion responded to the backlash by standing by his words.

“I rather obey the Lord’s command than obeying the desires of the flesh,” the devout Catholic said on his official Instagram and Twitter accounts. “I’m not condemning anyone, but I’m just telling the truth of what the Bible says.

“Or do you not know that wrongdoers will not inherit the kingdom of God,” he continued. “Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor men who have sex with men. God bless everyone. I love you all.”

The message has since been removed from his accounts and replaced by an apology of sorts.

“I'm sorry for hurting people by comparing homosexuals to animals,” the senatorial candidate stated. “Please forgive me for those I've hurt. I still stand on my belief that I'm against same sex marriage because of what the Bible says, but I'm not condemning LGBT. I love you all with the love of the Lord. God Bless you all and I'm praying for you.”

Pacquiao (57-6-2, 38 KOs) is set to oppose rival Timothy Bradley (33-1-1, 13 KOs) in their rubber match on April 9 in Las Vegas. “Pac Man” is set to retire after the fight, win, lose or draw.