Manny Pacquiao is getting ready to step back into the ring. The eight-division world champion will face Mario Barrios on July 19 at the MGM Grand Arena in Las Vegas.
Pacquiao, now 46, hasn't fought since losing to Yordenis Ugás in 2021. He's coming out of retirement and leaving his role as a senator to chase championship glory once more. His opponent, the 30-year-old Barrios, holds the WBC interim welterweight title and poses a real challenge.
The comeback has got people talking. Some think it's a bad idea, while others believe Pacquiao can pull it off. Jesse 'Bam' Rodriguez, the undefeated WBO flyweight champion, doesn't mince his words about the matchup.
"Many are excited about his return, proving he is a true legend. But... Manny will get hurt. He should have just stayed retired. He shouldn't be fighting anymore. At 46 or 47, going up against someone like Barrios... he's just going to get beaten badly."
On the other hand, Oscar De La Hoya, who lost to Pacquiao in 2008, thinks the Filipino star has a shot.
"I wish him all the best. Can he do it? Absolutely. Manny Pacquiao's a legend, you know... It's not going to be easy, but I think he can do it, yeah."
Pacquiao's age is a big factor. He's 16 years older than Barrios and hasn't fought in almost three years. That's a lot of ring rust to shake off against a fighter in his prime.
If Pacquiao wins, it'll add another incredible chapter to his already legendary career. But a bad loss could leave a sour taste for fans remembering his final fight.
The bout isn't officially confirmed yet, but all signs point to a July showdown. There's talk of streaming deals, possibly with Netflix, as boxing looks to reach more viewers.
