Filipino boxing legend Manny Pacquiao will return to the ring at age 46 to challenge Mario Barrios for the WBC welterweight title in Las Vegas. Image: France24.
(The Post News)- Manny Pacquiao is set to return to boxing after nearly four years of retirement to face Mario Barrios for the WBC welterweight title on 19 July in Las Vegas, according to ESPN.
Although not officially announced, sources told ESPN that the bout has been approved by the Nevada State Athletic Commission, and WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman reportedly confirmed Pacquiao’s intentions during a recent event in Saudi Arabia.
WBC regulations permit former champions to request a title shot upon returning from retirement, which has paved the way for Pacquiao’s comeback. In addition to his boxing legacy, Pacquiao is also active in politics. He is due to be inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame next month and is simultaneously campaigning in the Philippines for a Senate seat.
His opponent, 29-year-old Barrios, holds a professional record of 29 wins, two losses, and one draw, with 18 of those wins by knockout. He last fought in November 2024, retaining his title after a draw against Abel Ramos on the under card of the Mike Tyson vs Jake Paul event.
Pacquiao boasts a storied career with a record of 62 wins, eight losses, two draws, and 39 knockouts—adding further intrigue to his unexpected return to the ring.
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