ESPN reported that Pacquiao will challenge WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios. The announcement has split the boxing community, with many questioning the wisdom of the Filipino legend's comeback.
Pacquiao's last fight was in June 2021. He lost to Yordenis Ugas in a bid for the WBA welterweight title. The performance was underwhelming, with Pacquiao looking like a shadow of his former self.
Legendary trainer and analyst Teddy Atlas voiced his concerns about Pacquiao's return on his YouTube channel, THE FIGHT.
I am concerned, I don't want to stop anyone from making a living, from making money, but I'm very concerned with a guy. A great man who's helped his people, who's fought for his people, who's lifted his people up, who's given away money to his people, probably too much, but he gave away money to his people. Now that he has to fight at 46 after 72 fights, I'm concerned that he's got to fight a young guy that has been active and I'm concerned, I'm concerned about that, that's it for me.
Atlas pointed out the monumental risk Pacquiao is taking. At 46, with 72 professional fights under his belt since 1995, he'll face a young, active champion in Barrios.
Pacquiao has been training hard and looks to be in good shape. But his decision to fight again against an active and dangerous opponent could be a step too far.
The boxing world will watch closely as this Filipino icon, known for his contributions both inside and outside the ring, attempts to add another chapter to his storied career.