HBO slams Pacquiao comments, but says Bradley fight will go on

American network HBO said its upcoming pay-per-view broadcast featuring the third fight between Manny Pacquiao and Timothy Bradley Jr. will push through in April, but released a statement slamming the Filipino fighter's recent comments against same-sex marriage.

"Next month Manny Pacquiao and Timothy Bradley Jr. are scheduled to meet in a Pay-Per-View bout. We have an obligation to both fighters and, therefore, will proceed to produce and distribute that event. However, we felt it important to leave no uncertainty about our position on Mr. Pacquiao's recent comments toward the LGBTQ community. We consider them insensitive, offensive and deplorable. HBO has been a proud home to many LGBTQ stories and couldn't approach this event without clearly voicing our opinion," the company said in a statement.

Pacquiao, a senatorial candidate for the United Nationalist Alliance, caused a firestorm when asked about his position on same-sex marriage after comparing gay couples to animals.

He has since apologized for the analogy, but maintained his stance against same-sex marriage.

Apparel giant Nike has also terminated its relationship with Pacquiao over the comments.

In the Philippines, meanwhile, the Commission on Elections is set to decide on pleas against the local airing of the Pacquiao fight, which falls during the campaign period. —JST, GMA News