Pacquiao Returns After Four-Year Hiatus for Title Fight

Manny Pacquiao, the only boxer to win 12 world titles across eight weight classes, is making a historic comeback at age 46 to fight Mario Barrios for the WBC welterweight championship on July 19 in Las Vegas. Pacquiao, who was recently inducted as the only active Hall of Famer, aims to become the oldest welterweight world champion and the first to hold a world title while in the Hall of Fame. He returns after a four-year absence from the ring, with his last fight being a 2021 loss to Yordenis Ugas. Despite skepticism about his age and time away, Pacquiao has impressed observers and former rival Shane Mosley with his training sharpness and speed. Barrios, 16 years younger and the current champion, remains confident, while critics like Eddie Hearn doubt Pacquiao's chances due to the age gap. The bout has generated significant debate and anticipation, as Pacquiao seeks to add another unprecedented milestone to his legendary career.