Manny Pacquiao is set to face Mario Barrios for the WBC welterweight belt on July 19. The legendary Filipino fighter will make his emphatic return to professional boxing after more than a year of swirling rumors.
At 46 years old, Pacquiao's comeback has grabbed the spotlight in the build-up to the fight. Fans are cheering for the boxing icon, who doesn't have much to lose but plenty to gain from this match-up.
On the other side of the ring, 30-year-old Mexican-American Mario Barrios aims to continue building momentum in his career. Barrios has revitalized his career after losses to Gervonta 'Tank' Davis and Keith Thurman. The current world champion faces a unique challenge in this bout.
Barrios finds himself in a tough position, at least on paper. If he wins, especially by knockout, he might be seen as someone who beat up an old man. If he loses, he'll be stripped of his world title belt and possibly labeled as "the guy who got beat by a 46-year-old."
Despite the high stakes, Barrios remains respectful but determined. He said:
"It's kill or be killed."
Barrios won't go easy on Pacquiao, recognizing the challenge of going up against a legend. There's not much animosity between the fighters, but Barrios is motivated to prove himself.
The public's interest mainly centers on Pacquiao as the money maker. His incredible story continues to captivate fans and media alike. As the fight approaches, it's clear that while both fighters have something to prove, Pacquiao's return to the ring is the main attraction.
