Pacquiao vs. Bradley: Bradley Could Be Pacquiao's Last Opponent

Palm Springs boxing star Timothy Bradley could go down in history as Manny Pacquiao's last opponent while the dream fight between unbeaten champion Floyd Mayweather and the Filipino boxing superstar will remain just that—a wild dream.

This is the looming scenario in the midst of statements coming directly from Manny Pacquiao in response to retirement questions from the media. 

It appears the transformation of Pacquiao—who once indulged in drinking, gambling and womanizing—to that of a changed man who takes pleasure in spreading the words of God through his Bible crusade, had triggered the fast-tracking of his retirement from professional boxing.

The way things are developing, it would seem the eight-division champion will also fast track his fight schedule. 

Normally Pacquiao makes a ring appearance at the end of each year, usually in November.

Some friends who joined Pacquiao's Bible crusade believe his fight with Tim Bradley will be his last. But they are not discounting the possibility of Pacquiao facing Mayweather in November if the unbeaten champion finally accepts Pacquiao's offer.

But while taping his weekly TV show in Cebu City, Pacquiao told Bulletin Today that he's good for three more fights. This recent statement belies reports from his crusading fans about his planned retirement after a possible fight with Mayweather in November.

According to the report, Pacquiao made it clear he won't be retiring within this year.

In recent days, Pacquiao has been talking about his Bible crusade and his recent encounter with God in his dream. He said God told him to retire soon.

“I will not stay long in boxing because He said: ‘You have done enough. You have made yourself famous but this is harmful,’” Pacquiao told dzMM radio in an interview Monday.

When asked about how he equates his religious beliefs with boxing, Pacquiao replied: “I will do my work inside the ring.”

In his casual talks about his involvement in the Bible crusade, he said he believes God chose him to spread the gospel.

“When I speak, a lot of people listen,” said Pacquiao, who has become one of the most popular and influential celebrities in the world.

Pacquiao is set to face unbeaten Palms Spring boxing star Timothy Bradley at the MGM Grand Garden Arena on June 9 in Las Vegas, Nev.

His future foe, Mayweather, is likewise scheduled to face Miguel Cotto on May 5, also at the MGM Grand.

Speculations are high both fighters will finally clash in November after they get past their respective opponents.