Manny Pacquiao is set to make a comeback to professional boxing at 46 years old. The Filipino legend will face WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios on July 19 in Las Vegas.
Pacquiao hasn't won a professional fight in six years. His last bout ended in defeat against Yordenis Ugas in 2021. Since then, he's kept busy with exhibition matches against DK Yoo and Rukiya Anpo.
Despite his long absence from competitive boxing, the WBC has ranked Pacquiao fifth in their welterweight rankings. This decision has left some fans scratching their heads.
Two-time welterweight champion Shawn Porter shared his thoughts on the matchup during The PorterWay Podcast. He believes the fight could go Pacquiao's way if he's still got his trademark speed.
"It's so hard because he is Manny Pacquiao right? So it is what it is. He's either gonna come to the ring and be able to be fast enough to get off the s**t that he used to get off on, and if he does he clocks him and he knocks him out."
Porter pointed out that Pacquiao's left hand speed could be a big advantage. He also thinks Barrios' forward-moving style might play right into Pacquiao's hands.
The exact venue in Las Vegas hasn't been confirmed yet. More details about the fight are expected to be announced soon.
Pacquiao's return to the ring at 46 is driven by a desire to prove his doubters wrong. Will the "Pac-Man" still have what it takes to compete at the highest level? We'll find out on July 19.
