‘I’m Back’ – Former World Champion Announces Boxing Comeback

The much-rumoured return of Manny Pacquiao has been confirmed by the man himself. “Pac Man” announced via his X account that he will fight Mario Barrios on July 19 at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas for the WBC welterweight world title. Manny Pacquiao next fight has been a major talking point, with many feeling he should not be fighting again, let alone for a world title.

Manny Pacquiao Next Fight Confirmed for July 19 Against Mario Barrios

Manny Pacquiao Next Fight: Set to Face Mario Barrios for WBC Title

Pacquiao (62-8-2, 39 KOs) announced via his X account: I’m back. On July 19, I return to the ring to face WBC Welterweight Champion Mario Barrios at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.

Pacquiao vs Barrios (29-2-1, 18 KOs), whether we like it or not, is set for July 19 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. The bout has courted controversy since it was rumoured, and now that it’s been confirmed, it’s difficult to see that criticism subsiding.

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Ahead of this return, Pacquiao has decided to reunite with the legendary Freddie Roach at his Wild Card Boxing Club in Hollywood, California. The president of Pacquiao’s MP Promotions, Sean Gibbons, recently spoke to Fight Freaks Unite about the two reuniting: They haven’t seen other in four years and Manny walked into the gym and Freddie was there andthere were big smiles and big hugs.” 

“They chatted for a few minutes and went to work like they hadn’t missed a day. It was a like a time warp. Nobody missed a beat. It was like, ‘We’re back, we’re working, and we have a fight to prepare for.’”

Manny Pacquiao Next Fight

It remains to be seen what the Filipino legend has left. His struggles against Yordenis Ugas, along with a poor showing in his July 2024 exhibition against kickboxer Rukiya Anpo, where he was too easy to hit, seem to suggest the speed and explosiveness he was once known for are now a distant memory.

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“Pac Man” is the only boxer to win world championships in a record eight weight divisions. Can he create history once again? Despite the criticism, many are sure to tune in.