...the Pacman's influence

Pacquiao is fourth on Forbes’ ‘Most Influential Athletes’ list

By NR RAMOS

April 25, 2012

Manila Bulletin

The Pacman

MANILA, Philippines – Filipino pugilist Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao
continues to hold influence over the Americans, landing at fourth place in this year's Ten Most Influential Athletes list compiled by Forbes magazine.


Pacquiao ranked below popular race car driver Jimmie Johnson and quarterbacks Tim Tebow and Peyton Manning who made it to numbers one, two, and three, respectively.


Pacquiao garnered a 20 percent influential score and a 59 percent likeability level to beat other famous athletes like NFL players Tom Brady (5th), Aaron Rodgers (6th), NASCAR racer Dale Earnhardt. Jr., Drew Brees (8th), Eli Manning (9th); and NBA’s Jeremy Lin (10th).


According to information from the website, the ranking was based on an athlete’s likeability and whether they’re considered “influential,” which it said is an important quality for marketers.


The poll was conducted by Nielsen Media Research and E-Poll Market Research among 1, 100 respondents.


Candidates were limited to pro athletes who are currently active and who score at least 20% “awareness” with the general public.


It was the first time for the millionaire congressional representative from Saranggani to make it to the list.


Prior, in 2009 and 2010, he ranked 57th and 55th respectively on the magazine’s “Celebrity 100” list.