Manny Pacquiao will be remembered as a legend inside the boxing ring.
And just as big of an icon outside of it.
Pacquiao, an eight-division world champion, confirmed his retirement from competing late Tuesday night.
“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 video posted on his Facebook page. “It is difficult for me to accept that my time as a boxer is over. Today I am announcing my retirement.”
Over 26 years, Pacquiao went 62-8-2 with 39 wins by knockout. He won 12 world titles and is the only fighter in history to be a world champion in eight different weight classes.
In August, Pacquiao was bested by Yordenis Ugas via decision. It marked his first fight in more than two years and kept him from winning the WBA welterweight title.
“Thank you for changing my life. When my family was desperate, you gave us hope, you gave me the chance to fight my way out of poverty,” Pacquiao said in the video. “Because of you, I was able to inspire people all over the world. Because of you I have been given the courage to change more lives.”
Pacquiao has transitioned into a politician in recent years. He accepted the political nomination to run for President of the Philippines in May recently.
“I will never forget what I have done and accomplished in my life,” Pacquiao said. “I just heard the final bell. The boxing is over.“
To the greatest fans and the greatest sport in the world, thank you! Thank you for all the wonderful memories. This is the hardest decision I’ve ever made, but I’m at peace with it. Chase your dreams, work hard, and watch what happens. Good bye boxing. https://t.co/Bde4wO82sA
— Manny Pacquiao (@MannyPacquiao) September 29, 2021