Pacquiao sticks to retirement plan: ‘I made the decision’

Manny Pacquiao, of the Philippines, celebrates after defeating Timothy Bradley in the WBO welterweight title boxing bout Saturday, April 9, 2016, in Las Vegas. AP

Manny Pacquiao stood by his decision to retire despite his impressive performance in a convincing victory over Timothy Bradley in their third meeting on Sunday.

In what he had said to be his final fight, Pacquiao sent Bradley to the canvas twice in a vintage showing at MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas

During the post-fight TV interview in the ring, Pacquiao was asked if he would still continue to fight despite his prior announcement to leave the sport.

“Yes,” Pacquiao said. “Physically, I’m still okay, I can still fight, but I made the decision.”

 “I want to help the people and I want to spend more time with my family,” said Pacquiao in explaining his decision to step away from boxing.

Pacquiao picked up a unanimous decision win with all three judges scoring the bout, 116-110.

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