Manny Pacquiao running for president, boxing career over?

Manny Pacquiao announced his intent to run for president of the Philippines. He’s been a politician for a long time, but is his boxing career over? 

On Sunday, Sept. 19, boxing legend Manny Pacquiao officially announced that he would be running for the presidency of the Philippines. Most were expecting that news, but now comes the time to contemplate the impact that will have on Pacquiao’s boxing career.

Pacquiao (62-8-2. 39 KOs) has accomplished just as much or more than any boxer in history. During his 26-year professional boxing career, Pacquiao conquered eight different divisions, which no one else can claim.

At 42, Pacquiao lost his last trip to the ring against Yordenis Ugas in August. Pacquiao showed the effort, but he didn’t look as sharp as he did in previous bouts. Something was missing, and it looked like age had finally gotten the best of Pacquiao.

Although Pacquiao lost do Ugas, he didn’t look like a shot fighter. However, he said in several interviews after the fight that retirement was a serious possibility.

Pacquiao announced his intention to run for president of the Philippines on Instagram.

Manny Pacquiao is running for president. A win should secure an end to his boxing career

“Today, I boldly accept the challenge of running as PRESIDENT of the Republic of the Philippines, with a message to those who are taking advantage of the Filipino people: YOUR TIME IS UP!” read Pacquiao’s message on Instagram.

Pacquiao has been a politician in the Philippines since 2009, when he was elected to congress. He’s currently serving as a senator, but he’s set to challenge for the presidency.

Pacquiao has found a way to balance his boxing and political careers for 12 years, but becoming president would likely seal the end of his boxing career. It’s hard to imagine that he could find the time to dedicate himself to a boxing match while dealing with world diplomacy.

Pacquiao hasn’t announced his retirement, but you have to imagine that it would come quickly if he won the presidency. The Philippines elections are set for Monday, May 9, 2022. Pacquiao is the biggest sporting icon in the Philippines. That’s no surprise since he’s also one of the biggest names in sports in the world.

He’s incredibly popular in the Philippines and does have political experience. Pacquaio could very well be called Mr. President soon.