Manny Pacquiao expresses concerns over allegations against him
Manny Pacquiao, the renowned Filipino boxing legend and the sport's only eight-division world champion, returns to the ring on July 19, 2025, facing 30-year-old Mario Barrios in a highly anticipated title bout. The WBC welterweight championship will be at stake at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.
At 46 years old, Pacquiao expressed confidence in his comeback after a nearly four-year retirement, stating, "I'm confident I'll win the fight." In an interview with boxingscene.com, he emphasized the importance of rigorous training to prepare for his younger opponent.
Pacquiao, who is scheduled for induction into the International Boxing Hall of Fame on June 8, 2025, acknowledged the challenges that come with age and the prime of his opponent. Nonetheless, he remains optimistic, saying, "I'm not taking it lightly and not underestimating him. I have to punish myself as I've done before in training."
His career record stands at 62-8-2 with 39 knockouts, while Barrios boasts a record of 29-2-1 with 18 knockouts. Interestingly, there has been considerable attention and some concern about Pacquiao's age and physical condition, given that Barrios is significantly younger.
Boxing legend Oscar De La Hoya voiced his concerns about Pacquiao's speed and recovery at this stage of his career but acknowledged Pacquiao's experience and power. Regardless, Pacquiao remains excited and eager for the challenge. "I'm still excited for it, and I'm enjoying all the training," he said.
In this high-stakes confrontation, the Filipino icon hopes to etch his name in the history books once more. As a Hall of Famer, he aims to become the first boxer to win a world title at that esteemed level. The eyes of the boxing world will be on Pacquiao and Barrios when they step into the ring in Las Vegas this summer.
Boxing, being a sport, marks the return of Manny Pacquiao, an eight-division world champion, as he faces Mario Barrios in a title bout on July 19, 2025. Despite his age and a younger opponent, Pacquiao remains optimistic about his comeback, emphasizing the importance of rigorous training and his own physical punishment in preparation.
