Manny Pacquiao is getting ready to step back into the boxing ring. The 46-year-old Filipino legend will challenge WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios on July 19 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.
Pacquiao hasn't had a professional fight since June 2021. He lost his WBA welterweight title to Yordenis Ugas by decision in that bout. Since then, he's only had two exhibition contests in 2022 and 2024.
If Pacquiao wins, he'll break his own record. He became the oldest world welterweight champion in 2019 at 40 years old when he beat Keith Thurman for the WBA welterweight title.
Legendary trainer-turned-analyst Teddy Atlas shared his thoughts on his YouTube channel, THE FIGHT. He thinks Barrios will likely win because he's younger, but he won't count Pacquiao out.
"At the end of the day, you have to favour Barrios. If I was a betting man, I'm have to bet Barrios. I'm not betting, because I wouldn't bet against Manny … I think Barrios is a terrific fighter … but I'm not afraid to say my heart would be with Manny."
Atlas also said:
"Barrios is a special guy, but Manny Pacquiao is one of a kind. I wouldn't be shocked to see him do something that is very unlikely at 46 years of age. But I would not bet that he's gonna do it. I just hope that the people around him are responsible enough, that they've seen something special to continue to go forward with this fight."
Boxing fans are split on how they feel about Pacquiao's comeback. Some are excited to see the legend back in action, while others worry about his age and time away from professional boxing.
Pacquiao's return against the "El Azteca" Barrios is sure to be a big event in the boxing world. We'll have to wait until July 19 to see if the Filipino icon can turn back the clock one more time.
