Manny Pacquiao's comeback plan is causing a stir in the boxing world. The 46-year-old former champion wants to fight Mario Barrios for the WBC welterweight title on July 19 in Las Vegas, despite being retired for four years.
A WBC rule lets ex-champs return with a ranking for title fights. Critics aren't happy about this. Jeff Mayweather, Floyd's uncle, spoke out on The Mayweather Channel on YouTube. He thinks Pacquiao hasn't earned a shot at the world title.
Juan Manuel Marquez, who fought Pacquiao four times, also weighed in. He told Probox TV:
"The one to blame is the organization, why does it put Pacquiao to fight for the world title after four years inactive? Where are the ranked fighters from 1 to 10, from 1 to 5? The organization is making a mistake, but letting a historic fighter fight is not an issue."
Marquez pointed out that Pacquiao bounced back well after his 2012 knockout loss. He kept fighting and beat some great opponents. Pacquiao's power and speed have always been his strong points.
The Filipino icon's return isn't a sure thing for success. Marquez added:
"It's not an easy fight for Mario Barrios. We'll see how he comes back. If he feels good, if he has no pain from an injury, let's give him the benefit of the doubt as to how he would come back."
Jeff Mayweather noted that boxers coming out of retirement has become more common lately. Pacquiao's case is drawing extra attention due to his age and long absence from the ring.
The boxing world will be watching closely on July 19 to see if Pacquiao can turn back the clock one more time.
