Manny Pacquiao is getting ready to box again. The 46-year-old fighter from the Philippines wants to win another world title. He'll face Mario Barrios for the WBC welterweight belt in July.
Pacquiao hasn't fought professionally since 2021. He lost to Yordenis Ugas back then. But last year, he did have an exhibition match against Rukiya Anpo, a Japanese kickboxing star. The last time Pacquiao held a world title was in 2019 when he beat Keith Thurman.
WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman confirmed the upcoming fight. It's a big deal because Pacquiao has won titles in eight different weight classes. If he wins, it'll be one of the most impressive victories in recent years.
Terence Crawford, who used to be the undisputed welterweight champion, shared his thoughts on Pacquiao's comeback. At a media event, he said:
"I don't know, we shall see, I don't know."
When asked about Pacquiao's age, Crawford added:
"I can't say if he's too old or not you know, if he gets in there and wins then everybody will be saying differently so I don't put no limit on an all-time-great like Manny Pacquiao."
Pacquiao's opponent, Mario Barrios, is 29 years old and comes from San Antonio. He became the WBC 'Interim' champion last June after Crawford gave up the title to fight Israil Madrimov. In November, Barrios fought Abel Ramos to a split decision draw at AT&T; Stadium in Texas.
The fight in July will show if Pacquiao still has what it takes to compete at the highest level. Many boxing fans can't wait to see what happens.
