• Welterweight

Pacquiao brushes off Parkinson's suggestion

ESPN staff
January 6, 2013
Manny Pacquiao will visit a brain clinic in Las Vegas © PA Photos
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Manny Pacquiao has responded to suggestions by a doctor in the Philippines that he has symptoms of Parkinson's disease.

The multi-weight world champion was reportedly surprised at the claim made by neurologist Dr Rustico Jimenez, but reassured his fans that he is fine, adding that the decision on whether to retire rests solely with himself.

Pacquiao's last fight, against Juan Manuel Marquez, left him unconscious for several minutes after the Mexican floored him with a powerful right.

While there has been talk of a fifth fight taking place between the two there are also concerns for Pacquiao's health, with his own camp saying he will be taken to a brain clinic in Las Vegas for tests.

But claims by Dr Jimenez, president of the Private Hospitals Association of the Philippines, that he has seen signs of Parkinson's disease in Pacquiao's hand movements have angered the 34-year-old's camp.

Pacquiao himself simply brushed off the suggestion along with talk that his retirement decision lies in the hands of doctors.

"I am doing good. God is good," Pacquiao told the Manila Bulletin.

"I will be the one to say that I will retire from boxing because I am the one who knows and feels what my body is telling me."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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