The welterweight class has seen a wave of recent shake-ups-Jaron Ennis is moving up in weight, and Rolando “Rolly” Romero continues making headlines. But none of those stories compare to the impact of Manny Pacquiao’s return after a four-year hiatus.
At 46 years old, ‘PacMan’ stepped back into the ring with a gritty performance in a WBC title challenge. Though he didn’t reclaim a championship belt, he proved he remains a force in global boxing, reigniting the passion of fans and drawing the attention of would-be challengers.
Liam Paro has his sights set on Manny Pacquiao
One of the first to raise his voice was Australian contender Liam Paro, who recently returned to the win column after losing his IBF super lightweight title. Although his focus appeared to be on regaining that belt, he surprised fans by announcing a move up to the welterweight division.
“I’ve been doing this for 10 years. It’s time for a change,”Paro told Main Event. At 29, the physical toll of cutting weight has become too much, and the chance to become a two-division world champion is simply too enticing to ignore.
Paro wants to face his idol Manny Pacquiao
But beyond titles and rankings, there’s an emotional reason behind Paro’s shift in divisions. He made it clear that he dreams of facing his idol: “My favorite boxer, Manny Pacquiao, is back-and I want that fight.” His plan is simple: win a welterweight belt and lure the Filipino icon to Australia for a mega-event.
With Pacquiao now ranked in the world’s top 10, Paro knows the clock is ticking. If he wants to catch the legend’s eye, he’ll have to fast-track his path to gold.
Controversy surrounds Pacquiao’s ranking
Just days ago, The Ring magazine stirred debate by placing Pacquiao at #9 in the welterweight rankings, despite having fought only once in the past four years. “Manny Pacquiao, 46, enters at #9 following his return in July to challenge for the WBC title,” the publication announced on Instagram.
The inclusion sparked discussion. Current champion Mario Barrios sits just one spot ahead at #8. At the top of the list is Jaron Ennis-who has already vacated the division-followed by Brian Norman Jr., Eimantas Stanionis, and other active contenders who’ve been far more present than the Filipino legend.
Does Pacquiao still belong among boxing’s elite?
The absence of Rolly Romero, the reigning WBA champion, has also raised eyebrows. Is it fair for Pacquiao to rank among the top 10 without a recent win? Or is this more of a tribute to his legacy?
What’s certain is that the name Manny Pacquiao still moves mountains. And if Liam Paro gets his wish, we may be on the verge of an unforgettable war on Australian soil.
Read the full article here
