Nike ended their ties with Manny Pacquiao after the Filipino boxer's remarks against same-sex marriage became controversial. (Photo : Getty Images/Jeoffrey Maitem)
Days after Nike terminated its ties with Manny Pacquiao following his anti same-sex marriage remarks, the Filipino boxing champion was seen playing basketball in a pair of Under Armour shoes. But a source close to the Baltimore, Maryland-based sportswear manufacturer shot down rumors of a possible endorsment deal between Under Armour and the boxing legend.
Speculations that Under Armour and Pacquiao are seeking to strike an arrangement surfaced after photos of the boxer wearing a pair Under Armour basketball shoes circulated in the internet, the Baltimore Sun reported. However, the company declined to make a statement on a possible deal with Pacquiao, who is currently training for his third match against Timothy Bradley on April 9.
Photos of Pacquiao sporting Under Armour footwear from an unnamed aide of the Filipino were recently shared by GMA Network. Pacquiao's head of staff Haplas Fernandez was quick to announce that Under Armour is not a sponsor for the Filipino champion. Talking to Spin, Fernandez said that Pacquiao merely worn the shoes for a pickup game.
A few days after Nike axed him from their roster of endorsers, Pacquiao was spotted wearing a customized Nike shirt during training. The Swoosh has been Pacquiao's official apparel and footwear sponsor for over a decade.
In a statement on Pacquiao's termination as a Nike ambassador, the sportswear giant said that the boxer's comments on LGBT and same-sex massage were "abhorrent". Nike added that their decision to end their relationship with the Pacman is a show of support to members of the LGBT community.
Although rumors of a potential deal with Under Armour persist, Pacquiao's camp stated that they are in talks with several sports and apparel brands. Even after Nike's decision to part ways with the boxer, staff of the Pacman said most brands associated with him remain supportive.
Under Armour is a fast-rising sportswear company in the United States. In 2014, the brand overtook Adidas as the second largest manufacturer of performance footwear and sports apparel in the United States after Nike.
Pacquiao has previously announced that his upcoming clash with Bradley will likely be his last. The Filipino champion also hinted of retirement from the sport and will focus on politics once he is done. Pacquiao is currently seeking a seat at the Philippine Senate in the upcoming May elections.
Watch Pacquiao do mitts and heavy bag training for upcoming fight versus Bradley on April 9.
