Manny Pacquiao makes his unlikely return to the ring on July 19th when he takes on WBC World Welterweight champion Mario Barrios.
Although Barrios says he feels ‘disrespected’ going into the bout with Pacquiao, the defending champion is considered a heavy favorite in the matchup.
Barrios will be 16 years junior to his opponent, Pacquiao, when the two square off in Las Vegas. ‘Pac-Man’ last competed in an exhibition bout in 2024, but has not fought as a professional in four years.
Pacquiao has put the reasoning for his return down to making history, but has since revealed why Barrios was his choice of opponent.
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Manny Pacquiao gives credit to Mario Barrios as he explains choice of opponent
For a return to the boxing ring, there were likely plenty of potential options for Pacquiao.
The fighter from the Philippines could have chosen a route similar to Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. in facing Jake Paul. Alternatively, there may have been interest from fans in an exhibition bout with Floyd Mayweather.
However, Pacquiao will aim to become a world champion at an older age than George Foreman was when he defeated Michael Moorer.
In terms of why he chose Barrios, the decision was seemingly excitement-based.
Pacquiao told Premier Boxing Champions, “I believe, fighting with Barrios, we can give a good fight and we can entertain the fans.”
Pacquiao then added, “Barrios is a good fighter, he is a champion.”
When asked how much Pacquiao ‘still had left’ in terms of boxing ability, the fighter’s reply was, “You know me, I always bring surprises to the fans… I have to train hard and make sure I’m in 100% condition for the fight.”
Mario Barrios says he is expecting a tough fight against Manny Pacquiao
When asked by Premier Boxing Champions how he feels going into a fight with Pacquiao, Barrios said, “This is huge. This is huge for me, this is huge for boxing.”
Describing Pacquiao as a ‘living legend’, Barrios said, “It’s an honor to be defending against him, but I’m expecting one of the hardest fights in my career.”
Barrios’ first career loss came in 2021 when he was stopped by Gervonta Davis, eight months before suffering a loss to Keith Thurman.
In his last outing, Barrios was held to a split draw against Abel Ramos, in a fight where both fighters were knocked down.