Manny Pacquiao surprised the boxing world when it was announced that he would be returning to compete for a world title in July 2025.
Set to take on WBC World Welterweight champion Mario Barrios, Pacquiao will end a four-year absence from professional boxing on July 19th.
Although Pacquiao last competed in an exhibition bout, ‘Pac-Man’s’ loss to Yordenis Ugas in 2021 is his last professional outing.
The fight has split opinions of boxing fans and fighters. However, one legendary coach has given his take on the upcoming bout.
Abel Sanchez gives his take on Mario Barrios vs Manny Pacquiao
Former Gennadiy Golovkin trainer Abel Sanchez spoke to Boxing News about the upcoming meeting between Pacquiao and former Gervonta Davis opponent, Barrios.
Sanchez said, “It’s difficult for us, as coaches, to tell them [fighters] to hang them up. He’s older, he’s been out of the ring. He’s fighting, I’m not going to say a young champion, but a very decent champion, probably the lesser of the three welterweight champions.”
The coach then questioned whether 46-year-old Pacquiao would be able to regain the speed and the ‘snap’ in his punches for his title fight.
Sanchez then gave reference to George Foreman defeating Michael Moorer before adding, “Manny has a chance.”
- READ MORE: Manny Pacquiao had his debut months before his comeback opponent was even born over 30 years ago
Fans predict Mario Barrios vs Manny Pacquiao
The world title fight between Barrios and Pacquiao has been a controversial subject for boxing fans, as some feel that ‘Pac-Man’ shouldn’t be able to return to fight for a belt.
Many fans online also feel like Barrios will get his hand raised on July 19th. Comments on X included, “Damn. Barrios is about to take Manny’s head off,” and “Mario Barrios is going to stop Manny Pacquiao.”
As bookmakers have the veteran as a significant underdog, many people are not picking Pacquiao to be victorious against Barrios. However, one fan wrote online, “I still think Pac wins.”