Manny Pacquiao, one of the great icons of world boxing, is in talks to return to the ring with an eye on the World Boxing Council (WBC) welterweight belt, currently held by Mexican Mario Barrios. At 46 years of age, the Filipino is looking to make history once again and become the oldest welterweight world champion.
After more than three years away from professional boxing, Pacquiao is beginning to shape what could be his last big night in the sport. His last appearance was in 2021, when he lost to Yordenis Ugas. Since then, he has been involved in politics and exhibition fights, but now the possibility of an official title fight is back on the table.
Negotiations Reactivated with Mario Barrios
According to reports from specialized media, Pacquiao’s team and representatives of Mario Barrios have reactivated the conversations that at the time were stopped after the Mexican’s draw with Abel Ramos. Although the agreement is not yet closed, the mutual interest has generated expectation among fans and within the WBC itself.
Barrios, who holds the organization’s welterweight belt, appears to be a viable option for the Filipino’s return, having already expressed in the past his desire to face him. The fight would represent a clash between generations: on the one hand, Pacquiao’s experience and legacy; on the other, Barrios’ youth and hunger, as he seeks to establish himself as a legitimate champion.
Between the ring and politics
Despite the enthusiasm for a possible return, Pacquiao is keeping his final decision on hold, pending the results of the Philippine legislative elections, where he is seeking a second term as a senator. His team has indicated that it will be after May 12 when it will be decided whether “Pacman” will focus again on boxing or continue fully in political life.
Sean Gibbons, one of the men close to the fighter, clarified that while boxing is not currently his top priority, the desire to return is still there. “Manny wants to make history once again. God willing, and if circumstances allow, we will see him in the ring again this year,” he recently told The Ring.
If the fight materializes, Pacquiao would have the opportunity to break his own record as the oldest welterweight world champion. In addition, it would add a new chapter to a career that already ensures his place in the International Boxing Hall of Fame, to which he will be officially inducted in 2025.
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