Most reported optical pulling mechanisms rely on scattering effects, with well-established design principles: enhancing the forward momentum of light scattered by the manipulated object. In contrast, gradient-induced optical pulling remains in the early stage of exploration, largely due to the absence of a clear theoretical framework. Taking liquid-core optical fibers as an example, this paper proposes a long-range optical pulling scheme and clarifies the intrinsic correlation between scattering-induced and gradient-induced optical pulling forces. Furthermore, based on the modified Einstein–Laub formulation, an alternative strategy for optical pulling design is presented: constructing a negative gradient field inside the object. This fiber-based approach enables the reverse transport of nanoparticles through complex channels and holds potential for extension to other classical wave systems.