Manny Pacquiao Confirms July 19 Welterweight Title Comeback in Las Vegas

Manny Pacquiao has officially announced his return to professional boxing with a scheduled fight against WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios on July 19 at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. At 46 years old, Pacquiao aims to reclaim a world title, despite concerns over his age and recent performances, including a unanimous decision loss to Yordenis Ugas in 2021 and a July 2024 exhibition match against kickboxer Rukiya Anpo. Pacquiao, the only eight-division world champion in boxing history, has reunited with his longtime trainer Freddie Roach to prepare for this comeback. While some, like former promoter Bob Arum, express worry about the risks given Pacquiao's age and inactivity, trainer Roach remains confident in his ability to succeed. Barrios, a younger and current WBC welterweight titleholder, has a strong record and was promoted to full champion status after Terence Crawford moved up in weight. If successful, Pacquiao would become the second oldest boxer to win a world title, continuing his historic career in the sport.