Manny Pacquiao will step back into the ring at 46 years old. The Filipino boxing legend plans to face WBC world welterweight champion Mario Barrios on July 19 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.
Pacquiao hasn't fought since June 2021 when he lost to Yordenis Ugas. Now, after four years away from the sport, he's ready to lace up the gloves again. The fight against Barrios gives Pacquiao a chance to break his own record as the oldest world welterweight champion, a feat he achieved in 2019 by beating Keith Thurman.
Bob Arum, the legendary promoter who worked with Pacquiao for many years, shared his thoughts on the comeback. He said:
"I can't say anything negative because Manny meant so much to us and our company, but it seems really questionable that, at his age, he would put himself at risk by going into the ring with a champion fighter."
Arum's concern comes from a place of care for Pacquiao. He added:
"He's an amazing person, Manny Pacquiao, and if anybody can do it, he can do it. But I'm really concerned about it, given his age and his inactivity. But again, I will certainly be rooting for him because he's really a great guy who has meant so much to us as a company."
Pacquiao's opponent, Mario "El Azteca" Barrios, currently holds the WBC world welterweight title. The matchup promises to be a tough test for Pacquiao after his long layoff.
More details about the fight card, date, and location can be found on Forbes. As the fight date approaches, fans and experts alike will watch closely to see if Pacquiao can turn back the clock one more time.
