A totally ludicrous rumor is making the rounds today about Manny Pacquiao possibly deciding to retire after fighting Timothy Bradley this June.
Let’s put it to rest right now – the Filipino champion isn’t going anywhere.
Currently, depending on who you ask, Pacquiao is either the best or second best pound-for-pound fighter in the sport. Even though he is athletically slightly past his prime, mentally and in terms of being a bigtime draw his stock has never been hotter. Even if he and his arch rival Floyd Mayweather Jr. were to never fight (and they probably won’t), there are countless opponents -- both young and old -- that Pacquiao could happily pound into the canvas as he boosts up his legacy and bank account all at the same time.
There is literally zero reason for the champ to hang up his gloves right now. Or is there? Per our friends at ABS-CBN:
Pacquiao said his upcoming bout with undefeated American boxer Timothy Bradley Jr. on June 9 at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas may be his last fight.
…
Pacquiao explained it may not look good to be seen fighting in the boxing ring now that he has accepted the Church's offer to become a Bible ambassador.
He said he may just focus on his political plans and reading the Bible.
Last month, Pacquiao disclosed during a one-on-one interview with Dyan Castillejo that he has renewed his faith and has turned his back on vices, including womanizing, gambling and drinking.
So the general thought process here is that Pacquiao, a man who has built up a successful political and business career all the while maintaining his status as one of the two best fighters in the world, suddenly doesn’t know how to find balance anymore? That somehow, an additional role as bible ambassador will be the task that pushes a guy that’s balanced 20 different tasks all his life over the edge?
Nonsense.
Pacquiao won’t retire after the Bradley fight because Pacquiao won’t want to retire after the Bradley fight. But for the sake of argument, let’s say that on the morning of June 10, the Filipino champion wakes up and feels like calling it quits. Does anyone actually believe that Bob Arum would allow his golden goose to walk away when he has at least three more quality, legitimate fights left in him?
Anyone?
Don’t let the latest rumors throw you – Pacquiao isn’t going anywhere.
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