Filipino-American boxer Brian Viloria, 29, said he would prefer to think things over and weigh his options before announcing what he intends to do next.

Muhammad Ali once said his third fight with Joe Frazier was the closest thing that he knew what dying was like.

Brian Viloria’s version of Ali’s experience happened a week ago today.

“I am happy that I am still alive,” Viloria told reporters Friday afternoon at the Mabuhay Palace restaurant inside the Manila Hotel in his first interview since losing the International Boxing Federation (IBF) light-flyweight crown to Carlos Tamara of Colombia.

“I was so exhausted that I fainted,” said Viloria, his girlfriend Erica, seated next to him.

Even though Viloria said he was not hurt by Tamara’s punches, he was thankful that referee Bruce McTavish stepped in as punches rained on him from all angles.

“It could have been a lot worse,” said Viloria, who departs back to Los Angeles Saturday night.

Viloria said he will delay his announcement about his future until he meets with his management and training team.

“I think it’s going to be hasty if I make a decision right now. I have too discuss it with my team.”

Viloria, 29, said he would prefer to think things over and weigh his options before announcing what he intends to do next.

“I would rather die doing something I love than live doing something that I don’t,” he said philosophically, hinting that in the event he decides to keep on fighting, he would campaign at flyweight (112 lbs) and leave light-fly (108 lbs).”

Erika said he will not stand in the way of Viloria.

“I have full confidence in whatever he chooses in his career. Whatever you choose, I will support you 100 percent and I will be by your side,” she said.

To which Viloria replied: “I am really blessed to have her on my side.”