Boxing great Manny Pacquiao is ready to retire from the sport in order to focus on a career in politics.

The Filipino fighter's promoter, Bob Arum, stated last month that Pacquiao intends to fight again next year then focus on becoming a senator in his home country.

Pacquiao, who has been a congressman since 2010, says that it is only right that he gives up boxing if he is to concentrate on his political objectives.

"I think I'm ready [to retire]. I've been in boxing for more than 20 years. I may have one last fight before the elections," the 36-year-old told television network ABS-CBN.

"I prayed to God for guidance and I am happy about it.

"I will have to give up the other things that require my attention. If you are a senator, your focus should only be your job and your family."

Pacquiao is one of the most decorated fighters in history and considered one of the best pound-for-pound fighters of all time.

He is the only man to have won world titles in eight divisions and has won 57 of his 65 fights - 38 by knockout.

Pacquiao has not fought since losing the richest fight in boxing history to Floyd Mayweather Jr in May, stating later that he had injured his right shoulder training for the fight.

British boxer Amir Khan recently spoke of his hopes to face Pacquiao early next year having seemingly missed out on the chance to take on Mayweather, who retired after beating Andre Berto to take his record to 49-0 last month.