Pacquiao hasn't fought since losing to Yordenis Ugas in 2021. His Hall of Fame career and status as a boxing icon have earned him an immediate title shot after coming out of retirement. This decision has raised eyebrows among some in the boxing community.
Chael Sonnen, a former MMA fighter and current commentator, pointed out the contrast between Pacquiao's opportunity and the treatment of active boxer Jake Paul. Sonnen said:
"Why is Manny Pacquiao, who hasn't fought in four years, getting a title shot, while Jake Paul, who's active and climbing, can't even have a conversation about it without being laughed at?"
This question cuts to the heart of an ongoing debate in boxing: Should opportunities be based on past achievements or current performance?
Jake Paul has been making waves in the sport. He recently defeated Julio Cesar Chavez Jr., a win that marked a turning point in his career. This victory helped Paul earn a top-15 ranking in some boxing sanctioning bodies. However, critics still point to his record, which includes wins over former MMA fighters and aging athletes.
The controversy surrounding Paul extends beyond the ring. At a recent post-fight press conference for Taylor vs. Serrano 3 at Madison Square Garden, a journalist raised a question about the use of ring girls on an all-female card. The reporter suggested this practice might perpetuate the 'sexualization' of women in sport.
Nakisa Bidarian, Paul's business partner and co-founder of Most Valuable Promotions, responded by asking, "Do you want ring boys?"
Paul himself reacted strongly, telling the journalist:
"Bro, bro. Please shut the ... stop. Just stop talking. Send it to f***ing Kamala Harris."
This exchange shows that Paul continues to be one of boxing's most discussed and controversial figures, both for his in-ring accomplishments and his behavior outside the ropes.
As the debate over fairness in boxing title opportunities continues, fans will watch closely to see how Pacquiao performs in his comeback fight and whether Paul can continue to climb the ranks in the sport.