Manny Pacquiao is lacing up his gloves again at 47. After a four-year hiatus, the boxing legend is set to step into the ring this summer. His opponent? Mario Barrios, the current WBC welterweight champion. The news was revealed by Mauricio Sulaiman, WBC President, in an interview with Boxing King Media.
A Fight for the Ages
Sulaiman described the upcoming bout as “fantastic.” Pacquiao’s first world title was won under the WBC banner in the flyweight division. Now, he’s gunning to retire as a WBC champion in the welterweight class. This isn’t the first time Pacquiao has considered facing Barrios. Last year, he told ESPN that at 45, he still felt he had a lot to prove. Pacquiao has a history of making history – he defeated Keith Thurman at 40.
Pacquiao’s last fight was against Yordenis Ugas in August 2021. Despite being 42 at the time, Pacquiao gave Ugas a run for his money in Las Vegas. However, Ugas took the win and retained his welterweight title. Now, at 47, Pacquiao is looking to reclaim his former glory against the 29-year-old Barrios, who has held the welterweight title since June 2024.
The Road to Redemption
So, what’s driving Pacquiao’s comeback? According to his past statements, he believes he still has a lot to offer. Pacquiao has mentioned that he hasn’t taken much damage in recent years, which he thinks gives him an edge. The question on everyone’s mind is: can he still deliver? The fight between Pacquiao and Barrios is set for July, and boxing fans worldwide are eagerly anticipating the outcome.