Boxing icon Manny Pacquiao, aged 46, has announced a sensational return to the ring, nearly four years after his last bout. The Filipino legend will challenge WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios on July 19 in Las Vegas, aiming to become the oldest welterweight world champion in history.
“I’m back,” Pacquiao declared on social media. “Let’s make history.”Pacquiao already holds the record as the oldest welterweight champion, having won the WBA (Super) title at 40 by defeating Keith Thurman in 2019. His last fight was a points loss to Yordenis Ugas in August 2021. With a career record of 62 wins, 8 losses, and 2 draws, the four-time welterweight champion remains a formidable figure in the sport.
The World Boxing Council (WBC) sparked debate last week by reinstating Pacquiao at number five in their rankings, paving the way for his comeback. WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman defended the move, stating, “Pacquiao has been licensed by Nevada, passed all medicals, and as a legendary WBC champion, has been approved to fight by our organization.”
Outside the ring, Pacquiao has been active in Philippine politics but recently failed in his bid for a senate seat.