Manny Pacquiao Seeks 2016 Boxing Rematch Against Floyd Mayweather, but Is Focusing on Political Career
Professional boxer Manny Pacquiao says he's aiming for a rematch against Floyd Mayweather Jr. after his May defeat in the highly publicized fight.
When asked about his future in boxing after having surgery to repair an injury to his right shoulder that he sustained before the fight against Mayweather, Pacquiao said that while he's seeking a rematch next year with the undefeated world champion, for now he's focused on serving his country in the Philippine House of Representatives.
"I'd like to concentrate my efforts on working as a politician this year, and want to fight Mayweather in a rematch," Pacquiao told Fightnews.com. "I'll be ready for that mentally and physically next year. I'll show a better performance against him than in the first encounter."
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Pacquiao is serving his second term in the Philippine Congress representing the southern province of Sarangani.
During an interview with The Christian Post back in April, Pacquiao said he was motivated to run for elected office because he wants to "provide opportunities for my fellow countrymen that will improve their situations. As a politician, I want to help create jobs so that I can bring them out of their poverty. I want to give them hope. Boxing has been my passion, but public service is my calling."
Last year, however, Filipino media outlets such as ABS-CBN News Online revealed that Pacquiao was among the lawmakers who had racked up the most absences in the lower chamber. Despite the scrutiny, the boxer made it clear that he has done a great deal to help the people he represents.
"I don't want to boast about what I have done in my district, but you can see my accomplishments in my district. It's important that you help your constituents and not just sit in Congress," he told the Center for Media Freedom & Responsibility in February. "[In Congress] all you do is file bills, but the bills have no benefits to the people."
Along with serving his constituents, Pacquiao has said he also wants to encourage Christians around the world to fulfill the Great Commission by sharing their testimonies with the people they meet.
"I love my boxing, but I realize now that is not what my life is all about. I just want to encourage all those who are a Christian to share their salvation experience to others," Pacquiao told CP earlier this year. "I think that we could make an impact in this world. I'm not sure yet if I'm going to retire in 2016, but the legacy that I want to leave is to be a role model and an inspiration, not only the boxing fans, but to everyone around the world.
