Veteran Filipino boxing legend; Manny Pacquiao announced today, Wednesday, that he will retire from boxing to focus on the biggest fight of his political career, as he competes for the position of President of the Philippines.

The announcement came via a video message that Pacquiao sent to his followers and fans on his Instagram page.

“I just heard the final bell. Boxing is over,” said the 42-year-old Pacquiao, now a Philippines senator, drawing a flood of reactions from fans ranging from disbelief to gratitude.

“I would like to thank the whole world, especially the Filipino people, for supporting Manny Pacquiao. Goodbye boxing,” the 42-year old said in a 14-minute video posted on his Instagram page. “It is difficult for me to accept that my time as a boxer is over. Today I am announcing my retirement.”

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Last August, Pacquiao, 42, a senator in the Philippines, lost to Cuban boxer Yordenes Ojas in Las Vegas, USA.

The three referees acknowledged the victory of Ojas 115-113, 116-112, and 116-112 after the Cuban boxer dominated the second half of the match. Pacquiao, the former champion and eight-weight title winner, entered the match after a two-year absence from the ring.
And about his plans for the future after 26 years in the boxing ring, Pacquiao said at the time: I don’t know, let’s just wait and see. First, let me rest before making any decision.

Pacquiao finished his 26-year, 72-fight career with 62 wins, eight losses, and two draws. Of those 62 wins, 39 were by knockout and 23 by decision. He won 12 world titles and is the only fighter in history to win titles in eight different weight classes.

The Philippines Presidential election is scheduled for 2022.