To box or not to box; that is the question for Pacquiao

Manny Pacquiao has been a professional boxer for the past 17 years of his life. He has won titles in seven different weight divisions and has defended those belts successfully. Jinkee Pacquiao, Manny’s wife, said she no longer sees what Manny has to prove.

Pacquiao just came off a loss to Juan Marquez last week in a special main event. Marquez knocked Pacquiao out in one powerful punch to the face. L.A. Times reports that Pacquiao said, "I got hit by a punch I never saw."

That moment, when your loved one is knocked out in the ring, is the moment when you're reminded of all the risks that are associated with boxing. It is very easy to get caught up in the rewards until then. There comes a time in an athlete’s career where he or she has done just about everything there is to do in that sport. Jinkee feels that Manny has reached that point.

According to USA Today, Jinkee said in an interview, "It's the first time I've seen him like that, lying on the canvas, and I was scared. I know he is still (capable) of fighting, but for me there is nothing to prove. He already has eight (title) belts. He can retire — stop — at anytime. I want him to stop now. But he is the one who has the last say. Boxers risk their lives; (some) end up in wheelchairs. I don't want that to happen to Manny.''