Manny Pacquiao shocked the boxing world by announcing his comeback from a four-year retirement to battle Mario Barrios for the WBC welterweight championship. The clash, scheduled for July 19, 2025, in Las Vegas, marks a daring move for the 46-year-old icon
Pacquiao, the only eight-division world champion in boxing history, holds a 62-8-2 record with 39 knockouts. His last professional bout, a unanimous decision loss to Yordenis Ugas in August 2021, prompted his retirement a month later.
Barrios, the reigning WBC welterweight king, boasts a 29-2-1 record with 18 knockouts. At 29, he claimed the full belt in May 2024 after Terence Crawford vacated it, following a draw against Abel Ramos in November 2024.
ESPN and WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman confirmed the fight, which will stream on PBC’s Prime Video pay-per-view. Sulaiman praised the matchup, noting Pacquiao’s approval by the Nevada State Athletic Commission.
Pacquiao’s career includes victories over Keith Thurman, Oscar De La Hoya, and Miguel Cotto. His 2015 defeat to Floyd Mayweather remains the highest-grossing boxing event, generating over $600 million.
Barrios, from San Antonio, recovered from losses to Gervonta Davis and Thurman with three wins and a draw. His unanimous decision over Ugas in 2023 earned him the interim WBC belt.
The bout will likely occur at MGM Grand Garden Arena, as T-Mobile Arena faces scheduling conflicts with Lady Gaga’s tour. Pacquiao won his first major belt at MGM Grand in 2001 against Lehlohonolo Ledwaba.
Pacquiao’s revival aligns with his Senate campaign in the Philippines, with elections set for May 12, 2025. He served as a senator from 2016 to 2022 and seeks to reclaim a seat.
Pacquiao’s Comeback Faces High Stakes
At 46, Pacquiao faces a 17-year age gap with Barrios, raising questions about his ability to compete. Older boxers often struggle with speed and endurance, yet Pacquiao remains confident in his skills.
In July 2024, Pacquiao faced kickboxer Rukiya Anpo in a three-round exhibition, ending in a draw. The taller, younger Anpo tested his reflexes, preparing him for Barrios’ aggressive style.
Pacquiao told ESPN in 2024, “I made history at 40 beating Keith Thurman and I feel at 45, I have a lot left in the game.” His belief fuels his chase for a ninth division belt.
The WBC permits former champions like Pacquiao to request belt shots upon returning. Some criticize this, arguing he’s bypassing contenders like Devin Haney, which frustrates rising boxers.
X posts reflect excitement for Pacquiao’s return, with one user hailing him as a “top 10 boxer” of recent decades. Others express concern that Barrios’ power could overwhelm the aging star.
Pacquiao’s Hall of Fame induction on June 8, 2025, adds weight to his comeback. A victory would make him the oldest welterweight champion, breaking his own record set at 40.
Critics, including DAZN, warn Pacquiao risks his legacy and health against a prime Barrios. They highlight his last knockout win in 2018, suggesting a decline in finishing power.
The boxing community eagerly awaits Pacquiao’s next chapter, as he juggles politics and a historic belt pursuit. His showdown with Barrios will test if his talent can outshine time.
