Manny Pacquiao to Battle Barrios for Welterweight Crown
MANNY PACQUIAO – Filipino boxing icon Manny Pacquiao is coming out of retirement for a high-stakes showdown against reigning WBC champion Mario Barrios this July.
Manny Pacquiao is reportedly preparing for a remarkable return to the sport after four years of retirement, as per ESPN. The 46-year-old is anticipated to face off against Mario Barrios for the WBC welterweight championship on July 19 in Las Vegas.
Pacquiao last entered the ring in August 2021, when he lost by unanimous decision to Yordenis Ugas in a match for the WBA welterweight belt. Despite stepping away from the sport since then, the former champion across eight weight divisions now appears ready for a comeback to pursue another major title.
According to insiders cited by ESPN, the Nevada State Athletic Commission has cleared Pacquiao to fight. Under WBC rules, a retired former champion is eligible to request a shot at a world title upon their return—something Pacquiao has reportedly done.
WBC President Mauricio Sulaiman alluded to the veteran boxer’s return during a recent event in Saudi Arabia, confirming plans for a July bout against Barrios. This development arrives shortly before Pacquiao’s upcoming induction into the International Boxing Hall of Fame, adding excitement to his already legendary career.
According to the report, Barrios, who may face Pacquiao in the ring, holds a record of 29 wins, 2 defeats, and 1 draw, with 18 of those wins coming by knockout. He most recently defended his title with a draw against Abel Ramos in November during the Mike Tyson vs. Jake Paul undercard.
With a professional record of 62 victories, 8 losses, 2 draws, and 39 knockouts, Pacquiao remains one of the sport’s most celebrated figures. Outside of boxing, he is also active in politics and is a candidate in the upcoming Philippine Senate elections.
If finalized, this bout would mark Pacquiao’s official return to the sport—and potentially open a new and historic chapter in his legendary career.
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