Manny Pacquiao, the iconic Filipino boxing star, is making a monumental return to the ring, ending his four-year retirement at the age of 46. The legendary eight-division world champion is set to face reigning WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios on July 19, 2025, in Las Vegas. This highly anticipated bout marks a significant chapter in Pacquiao's storied career, as he aims to reclaim glory in a sport he has dominated for decades.
Pacquiao, who boasts an impressive professional record of 62 wins, 8 losses, and 2 draws, with 39 knockouts, has not fought since his unanimous decision loss to Yordenis Ugas on August 21, 2021. That fight, held in Las Vegas, led to his retirement shortly thereafter. However, the allure of the ring has proven too strong for the boxing legend, and he is ready to make a comeback.
According to ESPN, the fight against Barrios was confirmed by WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman, who stated that Pacquiao has been cleared to fight by the Nevada State Athletic Commission. The return to the ring is particularly significant as it coincides with Pacquiao's upcoming induction into the International Boxing Hall of Fame on June 8, 2025, a testament to his remarkable achievements in the sport.
Barrios, the current WBC welterweight champion, holds a record of 29 wins, 2 losses, and 1 draw, with 18 knockouts. He captured the title in May 2024 after Terence Crawford vacated it, and his most recent bout ended in a draw against Abel Ramos last November. Barrios, at 29 years old, presents a formidable challenge for the aging Pacquiao, who will face a 17-year age gap in the ring.
The fight is expected to take place at the MGM Grand Garden Arena, a venue with historical significance for Pacquiao, as he won his first major title there in 2001 against Lehlohonolo Ledwaba. The venue is likely to be packed with fans eager to witness the return of one of boxing's greatest icons.
Pacquiao's return to professional boxing comes amid his campaign for a Senate seat in the Philippines, with elections scheduled for May 12, 2025. He previously served as a senator from 2016 to 2022 and is seeking to reclaim his position. This dual focus on politics and boxing adds an intriguing layer to his comeback.
Despite the challenges posed by his age, Pacquiao remains confident in his abilities. He stated, “I made history at 40 beating Keith Thurman and I feel at 45, I have a lot left in the game,” showcasing his unwavering determination to compete at a high level. This mindset fuels his ambition to capture a title in a ninth weight division, a feat that would further cement his legacy in boxing history.
Critics, however, have raised concerns about Pacquiao's decision to return. Some argue that he is bypassing younger contenders like Devin Haney, which could frustrate rising stars in the sport. The boxing community is abuzz with mixed reactions; while many are excited for Pacquiao's return, others worry that Barrios' power could overwhelm the veteran.
The stakes are high for Pacquiao as he prepares for this showdown. If he emerges victorious, he would become the oldest welterweight champion in history, breaking his own record set when he won the title at 40. This potential achievement adds significant pressure to an already intense matchup.
Barrios, on the other hand, is eager to prove himself against a boxing legend. After recovering from losses to Gervonta Davis and Keith Thurman, he has bounced back with three wins and a draw, showcasing his resilience and skill. His unanimous decision victory over Ugas in 2023 earned him the interim WBC belt, solidifying his place among the top fighters in the division.
As the fight date approaches, anticipation builds. Fans and analysts alike are keen to see if Pacquiao's experience and skill can still shine against a younger, powerful opponent. The boxing world holds its breath, waiting to see if this comeback will be a triumphant return to form or a cautionary tale of an aging champion.
In the lead-up to the fight, Pacquiao's Hall of Fame induction serves as a reminder of his incredible contributions to the sport. His career includes significant victories over renowned fighters such as Keith Thurman, Oscar De La Hoya, and Miguel Cotto. Notably, his 2015 bout against Floyd Mayweather remains the highest-grossing boxing event of all time, generating over $600 million.
With the fight streaming on PBC’s Prime Video pay-per-view, fans around the world will have the opportunity to witness this historic matchup. As Pacquiao prepares to step back into the ring, the boxing community eagerly awaits his next chapter, questioning whether he can defy age and reclaim his status as one of the sport's all-time greats.
As the countdown to July 19 begins, both Pacquiao and Barrios are primed for a battle that promises to capture the attention of boxing fans everywhere. Will Pacquiao's legacy continue to grow, or will Barrios establish himself as the dominant force in the welterweight division? The stage is set for an unforgettable night of boxing.
