Pacquiao set for boxing comeback, to face WBC champ Barrios

By Darryl John Esguerra, Philippine News Agency

Pacquiao announced on social media that he will face WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios on July 19 at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. (File Photo: Manny Pacquiao/Facebook)

MANILA – Filipino boxing icon Manny Pacquiao has announced his return to the ring almost four years after his last fight.

Pacquiao announced on social media that he will face WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios on July 19 at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.

“I’m back,” Pacquiao declared.

At 46 years old, “Pacman” is looking to turn back time and overcome his own feat as boxing’s oldest welterweight world champion. He currently holds the record, when he beat Keith Thurman in 2019 to claim the WBA (Super) world title at age 40.

Pacquiao’s announcement came a week after his failed return bid to the Philippines’ Senate.

In his last bout, Pacquiao lost on points against Yordenis Ugas in August 2021.

Based on his social media updates, he has been training in General Santos City.

He is now in the United States to continue training camp with longtime trainer Freddie Roach and cornerman Buboy Fernandez.