Manny Pacquiao: Superstar Boxer Contemplating Retirement After Next Bout

In a move that would surely disappoint the boxing world, Manny Pacquiao may retire from boxing after his next fight.

From Allen V. Estabillo of MindaNews.com:

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Pacquiao disclosed over the weekend that he is seriously leaning on retiring from boxing after his scheduled June 9 World Boxing Organization (WBO) welterweight title fight against American brawler Timothy Bradley in Las Vegas, Nevada.

“Hindi maganda na nagse-share ako ng salita ng Panginoon tapos nananakit ako ng kapwa (It’s not right that I share God’s word and at the same time hurt other people),” he told reporters after gracing the oath-taking of newly-promoted personnel of the Army’s 73rd Infantry Battalion in Maasim town in Sarangani.

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Pacquiao cited a desire to dedicate more time to spreading his Christian faith and helping his poor countrymen, and he certainly has enough political and business ventures to keep him busy once he hangs up the gloves.

What It Means

Suddenly, the chances of Pacquiao fighting Floyd Mayweather have become almost non-existent. Add this to the many hurdles that Pacquiao and Mayweather must overcome if they are to ever agree on the super fight that the boxing community has so eagerly awaited for years.

What Happens Next

Pacquiao will fight Timothy Bradley on June 9, and the boxing world will eagerly await his decision per his retirement after that. If Pac-Man is dominant in the fight and still retires, it will be a major blow for the sport.

If he struggles or even loses, it will at least be an easier pill to swallow if he does in fact retire.

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