Pacquiao, 46, hasn't fought since 2021. He's got a storied career with 62 wins (39 by knockout) in 72 fights. The Filipino icon grabbed world titles in eight different divisions and faced off against some of the biggest names in boxing like Floyd Mayweather, Oscar De La Hoya, and Miguel Cotto.
After hanging up his gloves, Pacquiao tried his hand at politics. He ran for senator in the Philippines but ended up in 18th place in the voting. He also wanted to compete in the Paris Olympics 2024, but that didn't pan out.
Now, he's set his sights on Mario Barrios, the current WBC welterweight champ who's 29 years old. This matchup's raising some eyebrows. Fans, fighters, and pundits are worried about Pacquiao jumping straight into a title fight after such a long break, especially at his age.
Amir Khan, a retired world champion, has some thoughts on Pacquiao's comeback. He spoke to Sky Sports about it:
"A long lay-off and at the same time you're always that one punch away from getting hurt. I think it will be a fantastic fight but if I was to advise Manny I wouldn't say to come back."
Khan thinks Pacquiao should pick a different opponent:
"You should come back to someone that's already retired, someone like myself for example, because then it's an even fight. But when you look at a young fighter who's still a fighter, who's still boxing, who's active, sometimes it's dangerous."
Khan's suggestion isn't coming out of nowhere. He's been trying to get a fight with Pacquiao for years. Now, he sees a chance to make it happen and thinks it'd be a safer option for both of them.
Pacquiao's return to boxing is a big deal. He's one of the most legendary fighters of his generation. But this comeback and immediate title shot are causing quite a stir in the boxing world. We'll have to wait and see what Pacquiao decides to do next.