Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz, one of the most explosive names in current Mexican boxing, is set to return to the ring in a high-profile setting: the same card that will mark Manny Pacquiao’s return to professional boxing. The Filipino, who has not fought since 2021, will face Mario Barrios for the WBC welterweight world title on July 19 in Las Vegas, in an event that has already begun to generate enormous expectations.
Cruz, who recently won the WBA super lightweight title and defeated Angel “Tashiro” Fierro in February, is set to contest a rematch with the same opponent. Although there is still no official confirmation on his participation or a definitive date, July or August are being considered as possible windows for the Mexican’s expected return.
A historic function on the horizon
Pacquiao’s return at the age of 46 will not be a mere exhibition: he will seek to add one more title to his historic career, now at welterweight. The fight was sanctioned by the World Boxing Council and represents a unique opportunity to see “Pac-Man” once again in a championship bout, something that seemed unlikely after his retirement.
Cruz, for his part, would take advantage of this global platform to continue positioning himself as one of the great figures of Latin American boxing. To be part of a card headlined by a legend like Pacquiao would reinforce his international projection, especially if he achieves a strong performance against Fierro, with whom he already has history in the ring.
Generational duel and legacy at stake
If confirmed, the evening will bring together two generations of pugilists: Pacquiao, an undisputed symbol of boxing over the last two decades, and Cruz, a representative of the present and future of Mexican boxing. The presence of “Pitbull” would also add a special ingredient to the event, considering the Filipino’s history against Mexican fighters, whom he has beaten 16 out of 19 times.
Beyond the titles at stake, this event could become a bridge between Pacquiao’s golden era and the consolidation of new stars. For Cruz, it would be a night to ratify that he is not only a champion, but that he is ready to star in the most important fights in boxing today.
Read the full article here
