Pacquiao prays for Spence's recovery after withdrawal, describes Ugas as a 'formidable fighter'

Eight-division world champion Manny Pacquiao is praying for Errol Spence, Jr.'s recovery, following the latter's withdrawal from their fight.

In a statement reported by GMA News' Mav Gonzales Wednesday, Pacquiao said, "I pray for a complete recovery for Errol Spence.  Luckily his examination prevented further damage to his eye."

Pacquiao also described his current training in the United States as "the best training camp I have had since the first Barrera fight."

"I am grateful it won't be wasted. I look forward to showing everyone that Manny Pacquiao is still here to give the fans a good show," he added.

Sen. @MannyPacquiao: I pray for a complete recovery for Errol Spence. Luckily his examination prevented further damage to his eye. @gmanews

— Mav Gonzales (@mavgonzales) August 11, 2021

Spence had to withdraw from the fight against Pacquiao after it was found out that he had a torn retina during a pre-fight medical examination. The American boxer needed to return to Texas for treatment.

"I'm very disappointed that I won't be able to fight Manny Pacquiao on August 21," Spence said in a statement.

With this, Cuban boxer Youdenis Ugas will replace Spence in the scheduled match on August 22 (Manila time).

Ugas is the reigning World Boxing Association (WBA) welterweight Super Champion.

"I know Youdenis Ugas is a good and formidable fighter and on August 21, only one fighter will emerge from the ring as the WBA welterweight champion," Pacquiao said.

Ugas will defend his title against Pacquiao for the first time. The senator from the Philippines previously held this title but it was stripped off due to inactivity. — LA, GMA News