American premium cable and satellite television network HBO issued an official statement on Wednesday condemning the Filipino boxing icon Manny Pacquiao's recent anti-gay remarks.

The United States oldest and longest continuously operating pay television service will be airing the three-time BWWA Fighter of the Year winner's upcoming fight against Timothy Bradley Jr.

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"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," the world popular pay-per-view giant stated. "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."

Pacquiao, 37, made the homophobic comments while campaigning for a senatorial post in the coming May 2016 National election in the Philippines. He said that same-sex relationships are "worse than animals."

The former pound-for-found king's remarks immediately led to a backlash from his followers, the media, peers and business affiliates. Pacquiao made an apology within hours on Twitter. The well-known professional boxer continues to come under fire for his remarks.

Last month, athletic footwear and sports apparel giant Nike brought to an end its endorsement contract with Pacquiao following his derogatory remarks about same-sex couples.

Pacquiao will be fighting Timothy Bradley for the third time on April 9. The fight is expected to be his last.

TagsHBO, manny pacquiao, Timothy Bradley Jr.