After Manny Pacquiao, Brandon Vera plans to run for senator

Filipino-American MMA star Brandon Vera plans to run for senator in 2019. Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net

Brandon Vera wants to follow in the footsteps of Manny Pacquiao, but he’s not planning to crossover to boxing.

Vera, the ONE heavyweight champion, bared he’s keen on running for senator just like Pacquiao, who won a Senate seat last May.

After retaining his title in the main event of ONE: Age of Domination late Friday night, Vera, who is also trying his hand in acting, was asked what’s his next move.

READ: Vera defends ONE title, outclasses Sekine in first round

“The Senate in 2019,” Vera said during the post-fight press conference shortly after manhandling an overmatched challenger in Hideki Sekine of Japan in the first round at Mall of Asia Arena. “I’m serious.”

“I want to help people in the provinces. I’m just following Pacquiao’s lead,” said Vera. “I love seeing him in Senate hearings. “You can’t touch Pacquiao, so if you say something wrong or incorrect, he’ll ask.”

The 39-year-old Vera, who Filipino-American, said he just acquired dual citizenship last month.

Vera also eyes two to three more fights before calling it career. He is set to appear in an action film “Buy Bust” with Anne Curtis, who was in attendance at MOA Arena.

“Let’s see. Who knows? I might end up being a farmer.”