Manny Pacquiao has made it clear that his return to professional boxing is driven by his enduring passion for the sport rather than mere nostalgia. The legendary boxer, now 46 years old, is set to challenge Mario Barrios for the WBC welterweight title in Las Vegas. As he prepares for this significant bout, Pacquiao emphasizes his commitment to giving fans what they want, stating, “It’s been a while that I’ve been out of the ring, but I’m still active and exercising all the time.” His last professional fight was a disappointing loss to Yordenis Ugás in 2021.
Pacquiao, an eight-division champion and newly inducted Hall of Famer, insists that he has approached this training camp with the same discipline that characterized his early career. “Just like when I was 26. The passion is still there,” he remarked during Wednesday’s final press conference. “Saturday night, it’s going to be a great fight. I’m OK being the underdog. I’ve been the underdog many times, and I’m always bringing surprises.”
While acknowledging the talent of his opponent, Pacquiao asserts his determination to win. “I respect Barrios – he’s a champion and he works hard. But I’m excited to take the belt,” he declared. “We’re going to show the world that boxing is still alive and kicking. Manny Pacquiao is still here.”
Mario Barrios, at 30 years old, will defend his title for the second time and enters the ring as the betting favorite. However, he does not underestimate Pacquiao’s experience and skill. “Manny is one of a kind,” Barrios stated, acknowledging the difficulty in replicating Pacquiao’s unique style in training. “We’ve gotten a lot of different southpaw looks, so I’m feeling extremely comfortable.”
Barrios, who recently fought to a draw against Abel Ramos, views this bout as “historic” but is intent on ending it on his own terms. “It’s all smiles right now, but I know that come fight night, that smile won’t be on his face anymore, and neither will mine,” he said confidently. “I’m not looking for the knockout, but I’m going in there with bad intentions and power in both hands.”
Promoter Tom Brown has praised the upcoming fight as “another historic night” at the MGM Grand, noting that Pacquiao first fought in the venue in 2001. “This is his 16th fight at the arena. It’s a full-circle moment,” he added, setting the stage for what promises to be an electrifying night.
Las Vegas has a long history of hosting nostalgia acts, and tonight is no exception. At 46 years old, Manny Pacquiao, one of boxing’s most celebrated champions, steps back into the ring for the first time in nearly four years. He is on a quest for another title, facing off against Mario Barrios, a formidable opponent who boasts youth, size, and momentum.
This fight presents a steep challenge for Pacquiao, who is at a disadvantage in terms of height and reach, giving up six inches in height and four inches in reach, not to mention the considerable age gap. However, this is the same fighter who has built a career on overcoming odds, with eight divisions, twelve major world titles, and a recent Hall of Fame induction to his name.
As the fight approaches, questions loom: Can Manny Pacquiao still compete at the highest level, or will Mario Barrios, who remains confident yet respectful, send the fighting senator into retirement for good? Barrios understands the challenge, recognizing that Pacquiao’s unique rhythm and relentless spirit are difficult to prepare for. “Manny is one of a kind,” he reiterated. “But I’m the champion now.”
Pacquiao remains unfazed by the challenge ahead, asserting, “The passion is still there. Even with the layoff, the fire to compete and be a champion again is still burning.” He has maintained a rigorous training regimen reminiscent of his younger years, and the last time he fought at the MGM Grand, he achieved a surprising victory over the undefeated Keith Thurman. He hopes history will repeat itself.
In addition to the Pacquiao vs. Barrios main event, fans can look forward to a thrilling rematch between Sebastian Fundora and Tim Tszyu in the super welterweight co-main event. Their previous encounter was one of the most intense and punishing fights of the year, and the rematch promises to deliver just as much excitement.
As the night unfolds, stay tuned for live round-by-round coverage, results, and reactions from this historic event. Manny Pacquiao is back under the lights, back in Las Vegas, and back in pursuit of another championship belt. Time may be undefeated, but the Pacman is not ready to give up the fight just yet.
