Manny Pacquiao will step back into the boxing ring on July 19 in Las Vegas. The 48-year-old Filipino legend plans to face WBC world welterweight champion Mario Barrios, though an official announcement hasn't been made yet.
Pacquiao's last professional fight was in 2021 when he lost to Yordenis Ugas for the WBA welterweight championship. That defeat seemed to mark the end of Pacquiao's storied career. Since then, he's only competed in exhibition matches against Rukiya Anpo and DK Yoo.
Barrios, at 29, presents a fresh challenge for the aging Pacquiao. The Texan fighter recently defended his WBC world welterweight title in a split draw against Abel Ramos last November.
Tim Bradley, who fought Pacquiao three times during his career, shared his thoughts on the matchup in a recent interview. Bradley said:
"Barrios is no slouch. He's no easy task for anybody in the welterweight division. Manny's comeback after a long break against a young fighter like Barrios is dangerous."
Bradley pointed out Barrios' strengths, noting his size advantage and ability to control distance. He also warned about the risks Pacquiao faces:
"Old legends sometimes need to get beat up several times before retiring. The Ugas fight might not have been enough for Pacquiao to retire. Barrios can potentially finish Pacquiao and cause him to go back into retirement."
This fight could be a defining moment for both boxers. For Pacquiao, it's a chance to prove he still has what it takes to compete at the highest level. For Barrios, it's an opportunity to cement his status by defeating a boxing icon, even if that icon is past his prime.
As the boxing world waits for the official announcement, fans and experts alike are debating whether this comeback is a wise move for Pacquiao or if it's time for the legend to hang up his gloves for good.
