Most boxers would not be content unless they finally defeat their rivals on the ring, especially those rivals who have previously beaten them.
But Filipino pride Manny Pacquiao belongs to a different breed of boxers. Even after he lost to Floyd Mayweather Jr. a few months ago during the "Fight of the Century," Pacquiao feels at peace even if he doesn't get a rematch with his toughest rival.
"I'm okay. Whether there is a second (bout with Mayweather), it's not a problem," he told the Associated Press. "I heard he has retired, so it doesn't matter."
Pacquiao added that he is willing to take on any contender for his next fight "because I do not choose my opponents."
After news broke out that Mayweather might have taken an IV nutrient injection before his match with Pacquiao, he only wondered: "What I want to know and clarify is if he committed an offense, how will the rules be applied?"
For now, the Christian boxer is more focused on devoting time to his family, his career in politics, his charitable endeavours, and his involvement as playing coach of a professional basketball team. Latest reports said he still hasn't fully recovered from his shoulder injury, which he got from his last match with Mayweather. However, he was recently playing basketball in an exhibition match without showing any sign of injury.
"Boxing is not my focus because I can only fight next year, to give my shoulder a rest," he explained.
Given his popularity in the Philippines, whether it be related to boxing or basketball or politics, Pacquiao has a definite pull among the people, and that is why many have been asking what his plans are for the May 2016 elections in the Philippines.
Pacquiao has so far refused to divulge any information about his plans. He said he will announce whether he will run for re-election as congressman, or run for governor of his province, or seek a seat in the Senate before Oct. 16, which is the deadline for the filing of candidacy papers. He will also announce then who he will support as a presidential candidate.
