Manny Pacquiao announces he will run for president of the Philippines in 2022 – boxing legend who famously fought Floyd Mayweather in sport’s richest bout now prepares for new fight

Manny Pacquiao has now officially announced that he will run for president of the Philippines next year.

The 42-year-old boxing legend stands as an icon in his home country and has held a position serving as a senator since 2016.

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Due to his status as the nation’s most famous man, many have speculated that Pacquiao would look to advance his political career after retiring from boxing and target the presidency.

Rodrigo Duterte is the current incumbent, with the election to decide his successor scheduled for May 9, 2022.

Now, Pacquiao has confirmed he will be running.

He said: "I boldly accept the challenge of running as PRESIDENT of the Philippines.

"We need progress. We need to win against poverty.

"We need government to serve our people with integrity, compassion and transparency.

"The time is now. I am ready to rise to the challenge of leadership.";

As things stand, Pacquiao is still an active fighter.

He was recently outpointed by crafty Cuban Yordenis Ugas, but has said he is considering a rematch before the presidential run.

It appears that if 'Pac Man' is ever to be seen in the ring again, it will have to be in December or January.

Otherwise, retirement is inevitable.

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