Philippines' favorite boxing champion, Manny Pacquiao, announces his retirement following one last fight with arch rival Timothy Bradley on April 9. Pacquiao will replace his boxing career with a political one as he hopes to become one of the 12 senators in the May elections, and possibly run for the presidency in 2022.

A lot of fans were disappointed with this news, more so when they were hoping for another controversial Pacquiao-Mayweather battle, which was his last fight. It ended rather badly for the boxer when he lost a unanimous decision to Floyd Mayweather Jr., and aggravated an injury, in the richest bout of boxing history. However, The Los Angeles Times confirms the boxer-turned-politician's retirement plans as he is governed by the need to do more for his country.

"I started boxing because I wanted to help my mother. I end it because I want to help my countrymen. ... Boxing has been my passion. Public service is my calling. ... If [presidency] is my destiny, no one will refuse that."

Pacquiao's promoter Bob Arum too did not want a retirement for the boxer at this stage, but he fully supports his views. "He can do so much for the Philippines nation. He doesn't take. He gives. And that's not usually what politicians do," said Arum.

Channel NewsAsia presents the champion's impressive track record, which totally justifies his supporters' disappointment. His career span of over 20 years saw him become a legend from being a fish vendor. His phenomenal rise from rags to riches has stunned the entire world as did his stunning record of 57 victories (of them, 38 were knockouts), 6 losses, and 2 draws.

For now, the Filipino is set to take on Bradley at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. With this fight, Manny completes the trilogy with his opponent. The first bout had gone to Bradley who won a dubious victory with a split decision while the second one tipped in Pacquiao's favor who won fair and square with a unanimous decision. At this point, when both welterweights are on even grounds, a highly-anticipated third match seems to befit the occasion of boxing legend's last bout.

It is being said that Bradley was not the first choice for this game, reveals ESPN. Apparently Arum had proposed the names of Terence Crawford and Amir Khan, who were eventually dismissed by Pacquiao. With a $20 million payday, the 37-year old is all set to 'hang his gloves' after one last encore. He says financial angle had nothing to do with this decision. He chose Bradley because he believes he has "changed" since their last encounter, and is eager to see his rival's new moves taught by his new trainer Teddy Atlas.

Being Philippines' favorite, Pacquiao has innumerable supporters rooting for his last victory. It seems likely that it'll be the same when he stands for the elections. As a parting shot, the future senator said "This is not about the money. It's about legacy, about how I end my career. I've announced this is my last fight. ... If you want to see me after this fight, you'll have to come to the Philippines, and I recommend the Philippines for everyone's vacation."