Manny Pacquiao will step back into the ring this Saturday in Las Vegas. The Filipino boxing legend plans to challenge WBC welterweight champ Mario Barrios after a four-year break from professional fighting.
Pacquiao aims to reclaim a world title and become the oldest-ever welterweight champion. The 45-year-old fighter claims he's overcome chronic leg cramps that have troubled him for over two decades. He's focused his training at the Wild Card Gym and got top-tier medical clearance to compete.
Barrios, the 30-year-old current champion, stands in Pacquiao's way. But there's more at stake than just this fight. If Pacquiao wins, he might set up a rematch with Floyd Mayweather.
Lance Pugmire, a boxing insider, shared some interesting news on social media. He wrote:
Went over to @FloydMayweather Boxing Club upon my arrival today in Vegas for @MannyPacquiao fight week, was told to expect Floyd to attend with two fighters on the card. 'Conversations are already happening ... if Manny wins, this (rematch) could be worth billions,' I was told
Their first fight in 2015 made over $600 million and got 4.6 million pay-per-view buys. Some critics said it wasn't a real professional fight. This time, it looks like they want to make it official.
Mayweather retired with a perfect 50-0 record. He'd put that spotless record on the line if he decides to fight Pacquiao again.
When asked about a possible rematch, Pacquiao said: "still active...rematch, with Floyd? It's up to him"
If Pacquiao beats Barrios on Saturday, we might see one of boxing's biggest rematches. It could be a historic moment for the sport.
