BOXING legend Manny Pacquiao will make a dramatic return to the professional code when he takes on Mario Barrios on July 19. Sources have confirmed to ESPN combat reporter Andreas Hale that ‘Pacman’ will end his near-four-year ring hiatus by fighting in Las Vegas, vying for Barrios’ WBC welterweight title.
While news of such a return has been met with excitement in some quarters, others on social media are not as keen, citing the bypassed rankings system and Pacquiao’s ability to fly straight back into a title shot. Of even greater concern is his age, 46, and physical capabilities. The multi-weight world champion looked less-than-impressive in recent exhibition fights.
The last time he was seen in the ring properly, Pacquiao struggled to find the old magic as Yordenis Ugas defeated him on points in August 2021. Even though the scorecards were relatively close in reflection, he looked hittable and weary down the stretch. The time felt right for retirement.
Now, that is over as the 72-fight veteran seeks to surpass 500 rounds and attempt to make further history. While unspectacular and beatable, Mario Barrios is a strong and experienced champion who is in his fighting prime at 29 and used to the 12-round distance.
Putting aside any remaining feelings of nostalgia, Pacquiao fans will hope that this is not another case of a fighter past his prime who just doesn’t know when to hang up the gloves.
