Manny Pacquiao's getting ready to step back into the ring. The Filipino boxing legend will face Mario Barrios on Saturday, July 19, marking his return after four years away from professional boxing.
Pacquiao, now 46, says he's only got a few more fights left in him. He told Covers:
"It's hard to say right now. All I can say is one at a time. I think I have two or three fights left. I feel like I could do this for a couple more years. But I'm taking it one at a time."
"Pac-Man" last fought professionally in 2019, beating Keith Thurman. He briefly retired after losing to Yordenis Ugas in 2021. Now, he's joining a wave of comebacks in the boxing world, possibly inspiring others like Ricky Hatton and Paulie Malignaggi to lace up their gloves again.
Pacquiao knows Barrios will be motivated to make a name for himself. Barrios has only lost to top fighters like Gervonta Davis and Keith Thurman, so he'll be a tough opponent.
Oscar de la Hoya, who Pacquiao retired 17 years ago, still thinks highly of the Filipino's skills. In a chat with Elie Seckbach, de la Hoya said:
"I have Pacquiao for his footwork... He confuses you, and throws punches from different angles. And he comes from left, right, forward and backward."
Pacquiao's kept up his tough training routine and still believes in his abilities. He's hoping his speed and unpredictable style will help him win his comeback fight. The boxing world will be watching closely to see if the legend can recapture his old magic in the ring.
