‘Positive’ Pacquiao inspires Katsidis

GOLD Coast-based former boxing star Michael Katisidis has been left stunned and inspired by mate Manny Pacquiao’s post-defeat positivity.

Katsidis spent some oneon-one time with the Filipino star soon after his shock loss to Brisbanite Jeff Horn and said you wouldn’t have known he’d just been beaten in a 12-round slugfest.

Katsidis, who came close to fighting Pacquiao on several occasions during his US prime time boxing career in the 2000s, told the Bulletin it was the first time they’d caught up since 2009: “He’s just come off losing but he was sitting there, hands in the air, praying to god and just so positive and so happy.

“He’s inspiring. I’m a big fan of his because he came from such a hard life, it gives me goosebumps seeing him and how positive he was afterwards.”

Katsidis, who got Pacquiao to sign a mate’s “Many Pac” number plate, posted a photo of the pair together on Instagram, showing a battered Pacquiao and writing: “Great spending time with you today Manny.

“Unlucky in the fight. We should spend more time together.”

Pacquiao flew out from Gold Coast Airport yesterday morning about 9am with most of his 200-strong entourage on a privately chartered Boeing 757.

Katsidis has previously told the Bulletin he wants one last big swansong.

His most recent fight was a points win after a full eight rounds against North Queenslander Josh King back in Katsidis’ native Toowoomba in March.