Pacquiao, Barrios Set for 2025 WBC Welterweight Title Fight

Manny Pacquiao, the legendary Filipino boxer and eight-division world champion, is making a highly anticipated comeback at age 46 to challenge WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios on July 19, 2025. Despite concerns about Pacquiao's age and four-year hiatus from the ring, many experts and fellow fighters, including Nonito Donaire, believe his speed, ring intelligence, and experience could enable him to overcome Barrios, who is 16 years younger and taller. Barrios, who holds a 29-2-1 record and became champion after defeating Yordenis Ugas and Fabian Maidana, acknowledges the challenges posed by Pacquiao's legacy and inactivity but remains confident in his preparation and skill. Some critics view Barrios as a relatively weak titleholder, suggesting Pacquiao chose him strategically for his comeback. The fight is promoted as a significant event by Premier Boxing Champions and will headline the PBC Pay-Per-View on Prime Video from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. Both fighters express respect and determination as they prepare for what promises to be a historic bout.