Manny Pacquiao plans to step back into the boxing ring at 46 years old. The Filipino legend will face WBC world welterweight champion Mario Barrios on July 19, likely in Las Vegas.
Pacquiao hasn't had a professional fight since 2021 when Yordenis Ugas defeated him. He's kept busy with exhibition bouts against Rukiya Anpo and DK Yoo since then.
His opponent, 29-year-old Barrios from San Antonio, Texas, last fought to a split decision draw with Abel Ramos in November. Barrios previously held the WBA super-lightweight title before losing it to Gervonta Davis four years ago.
Tim Bradley, who fought Pacquiao three times and won once, shared his thoughts on the matchup with Chris Mannix in an interview.
"Barrios is no slouch. He's a young fighter, a bigger fighter. He knows how to control the distance very well and can punch a little bit. He's no easy task for anybody in the welterweight division."
Bradley expressed concern about Pacquiao's comeback:
"It's dangerous. Sometimes these old legends gotta get beat up several times before they call it quits. The Ugas fight might not have been enough for Pacquiao to retire."
The former champion predicted Barrios could end Pacquiao's return to the ring early, sending him back into retirement.
ESPN first reported the fight, which will take place in the United States. Fans will watch closely to see if Pacquiao can turn back the clock one more time against a tough young champion.
