Usually, because it is a physically demanding sport, boxers reach their decline in the mid to late thirties, but it does not look like it with Manny Pacquiao. Although most boxers have surpassed the 30s range and reached their forties, this legend refuses to remain silent and has one more thing to prove to the world. Rumours and speculation have been moving around the world of boxing, with many asking whether or not it is true that he is returning. Is it a Public Relations stunt? What is happening? Fans have been reminiscing about his footwork, speed, and endurance; however, what happened in 2021 was an incomplete story.
This incredible player, the myth, and the comeback
Perceived as a national hero, Manny Pacquiao was one of those athletes that everyone wants to know where and what is happening, who his next opponent is, and whether he has developed a new skill, and so forth. What makes him unique and causes you to read about him now is his hunger for the game. With fewer than 10 losses in his entire career, fans are curious to know if this return has a deeper meaning to it beyond just a boxing match.
Las Vegas is not letting it go. As early as January 2025, that is when rumours of Pacquiao’s return began to circulate, and a few insiders and close reporters confirmed that he was still negotiating, without any full confirmation of his return to the square-shaped ring. After some time, the whole idea died down, and fans were focused on whatever was happening until now, but this time around, Manny Pacquiao is the one who confirmed his return.
Manny Pacquiao returns from retirement to fight Mario Barrios
After speculation and rumours, Manny Pacquiao has confirmed his return because he wants to make history. Almost four years ago, he was in a ring when he lost to Yordenis Ugas in August 2021, and he was 41 years old by then. We are not really sure about the sudden decision and hunger to come back; however, we know it will be one of the most interesting boxing matches in 2025.
He posted on Instagram and said,
“I’m back. On July 19, I return to the ring to face WBC Welterweight Champion Mario Barrios at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. Let’s make history!”
Is he still fit enough to fight Mario Barrios?
Remember, in the beginning, I mentioned the retirement age of boxers and how the sport is physically demanding and can cause a physical decline from the mid-thirties going up. Now, that is something fans and boxing enthusiasts are worried about. Pacquiao has thrown 10 fewer punches per round and landed approximately seven fewer punches per round in his six fights after turning 40, compared to his production in his previous 14 fights.
Therefore, fighting Barrios and winning will be a mission and a half for Pacquiao. Here are two reasons why Mario Barrios could win this game:
- Mario Barrios is 6 feet taller than Manny, and the tallest he has ever competed against.
- Barrios is 16 years younger than Pacquiao. The age difference, endurance, and speed should give us an insight already.
If Manny Pacquiao’s return is to prove he is boxing’s oldest 147-pound world champion, then perhaps we are undermining his talent and ability to win this game. Although a thirty-year-old and a 46-year-old have differences in their physical fitness, strength, and ability, it is something worth waiting for and witnessing. The game will transpire in Las Vegas, at the T-Mobile Arena, on July 20, 2025. While we think Barrios is unbeatable, we also think Pacquiao has a lower chance of winning. This will be a fight worth the headlines as two generations prove to the world.
