Manny Pacquiao’s engages in retail therapy

As one of the world’s most recognized athletes and without a doubt the number one celebrity in the Philippines, everything Pacquiao does in his life makes headlines. So when he decided to buy himself a $427,000 Bell helicopter, it became a big media event.

Pacquiao explained the purchase was a practical one, to aid his ability to travel from his home in the province of Sarangani to the capital Manila 700 miles away in his role as an elected member of the Philippines House of Representatives. Americans who aren’t up on their geography need to be reminded that Sarangani is an island at the extreme southern end of the archipelago nation.

Pacquaio said in media interviews this week in the Philippines that he actually bought the helicopter before his loss to Bradley, with the motivation of better serving his constituents.

Forbes Magazine recently reported that Pacquiao is the second highest paid athlete in the world so far in 2012, earning $62 million including endorsements and product sales. He came in second only to boxer Floyd Mayweather, who earned $85 million. Both knocked Tiger Woods out of the top spot.

Many fans are saying Pacquiao’s lust to be the best fighter is gone. His fame and fortune has tempered the beast within him. I would a agree. His last few fights have been kind of…should we say…blahhh! But this was still the best fight I saw with Manny Pacquiao: