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World boxing champion Jerwin Ancajas got a pleasant surprise after the weigh-in Friday for his world junior bantamweight title defense when he got a call from his idol, former 8-division champion Manny Pacquiao.

Pacquiao phoned Ancajas at about 9 p.m. on Friday night in Texas to wish the boxer well.

Ancajas is set to defend his IBF junior bantamweight strap against Mexico's Israel "Jiga" Gonzalez on Saturday in Corpus Christi (Sunday, Manila time).

"Galingan mo," Pacquiao was heard saying over the phone which was set on speaker. "Magdasal ka sa Panginoon."

• LOOK: Ancajas visits Pacquiao's old stomping grounds in LA

Ancajas, widely considered as Pacquiao's successor, is being co-promoted by the boxing legend's MP Promotions.

It was through this connection that Top Rank Inc. was able to set the Filipino champion up for his US debut.

Ancajas also requested a spiritual boost from his idol, who is also a pastor.

"Mag-request po sana ako sir na magpa-pray over," said Ancajas.

The fighting senator granted it.

Ancajas easily made weight for the title fight, tipping the scales to 114.75 pounds.

• WATCH: World champ Jerwin Ancajas has a fan in Sara Duterte

Gonzalez stepped in at 114 pounds. The weight limit for the 12-round title bout is 115.

Coach Joven Jimenez said the Filipino champion immediately refueled after the weigh-in that took place at American Bank Center in Corpus Christi, Texas.

"Kumain na po siya ng kanin, tinolang manok, isda, at prutas para maka-recover sa dyeta," he said in an online correspondence with ABS-CBN News.

For more sports coverage, visit the ABS-CBN Sports website.