Manny Pacquiao is getting ready to step back into the boxing ring. The Filipino boxing legend will make his comeback on July 19 in Las Vegas, facing Mario Barrios for the WBC welterweight world champion title.
At 46 years old, Pacquiao's return to professional boxing has raised some eyebrows. His last fight was nearly three years ago, on August 21, 2021, when he lost to Yordenis Ugas by unanimous decision at the T-Mobile Arena in Paradise, Nevada.
After that defeat, Pacquiao hung up his gloves and dove into politics. He served as a senator in the Philippines and even ran for president. But his political career didn't go as planned. He lost the presidential election by a wide margin and left politics behind.
Pacquiao didn't mince words about his experience in government:
"Politics is so dirty. I don't like that. When I was in politics, I wanted to serve honestly."
Now, the boxing star has his sights set on the ring again. He's been busy preparing for his comeback, sharing videos and photos of his training on social media. Pacquiao seems to be drawing inspiration from the Rocky movies, using quotes and even the theme song "Eye of the Tiger" to pump himself up.
When asked about criticism regarding his return to boxing at his age, Pacquiao responded:
"As long as my body can fight, then I will fight."
He's also made it clear on social media that he's not done with boxing yet. In one post, he shared a quote from Rocky:
"Life hits you hard, but what matters is how many blows you can take and keep going."
Despite the questions about his ability to fight after several years away from the sport, Pacquiao claims he's in great shape. His fans are excited to see him back in action, eager to find out if the boxing legend still has what it takes to compete at the highest level.
As July 19 approaches, all eyes will be on Las Vegas to see if Manny Pacquiao can reclaim his place in the boxing world. Will his comeback be a triumphant return or a reminder of why he retired? We'll have to wait and see.
