Manny Pacquiao is lacing up his gloves once again. The 46-year-old boxing legend will return to the ring on July 19 at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, gunning for a welterweight world title against Mario Barrios.
Pacquiao's comeback has raised eyebrows in the boxing world. He retired in 2021 after losing to Yordenis Ugas, capping off a career that saw him become a multiple division champion and one of the sport's biggest stars. He fought in thrilling bouts, including a legendary rivalry with Juan Manuel Marquez and a mega-fight against Floyd Mayweather.
The Filipino icon's series with Marquez stands out in his storied career. They fought four times, with Pacquiao winning two, one draw, and Marquez scoring a devastating knockout in their final meeting. That last fight, on December 8, 2012, at the MGM Grand, saw both men hit the canvas before Marquez landed a punch that put Pacquiao out cold with just one second left in the sixth round.
Now, Pacquiao aims to break his own record as the oldest welterweight world champion. He's officially started training for the bout, though some have criticized both his decision to fight at 46 and the WBC for sanctioning the title fight.
Juan Manuel Marquez, Pacquiao's old rival who retired in 2014 as a four-division champion, offered his thoughts on the comeback in an interview with Pro Box TV.
"If Pacquiao feels good, no shoulder, knee, or foot injuries, and he's perfectly fine — let's give him the benefit of the doubt. Let's see what kind of fight he has to put up against Mario Barrios."
Marquez urged fans to keep an open mind about Pacquiao's return, noting the Filipino's power and historic status in the sport.
"Will he be aggressive? Will he rely on his power? Because power is the last thing a fighter loses. Let's give the benefit of the doubt to a historic fighter. What matters is the integrity of the fighter. Pacquiao still hits hard. Let's see how Barrios handles that."
As July 19 approaches, all eyes will be on Pacquiao. Will he prove he's still got what it takes, or will Father Time finally catch up with the boxing legend? We'll find out when he steps into the ring at the MGM Grand.
