Manny Pacquiao, one of the biggest fighters in boxing history, may be preparing for a remarkable return to the ring. After his loss to Yordenis Ugas in August 2021, many wondered if the legendary Filipino boxer would ever fight again. But it looks like the rumors of Manny Pacquiao’s comeback are more than just talk — Manny Pacquiao may be eyeing a potential showdown with WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios.
Pacquiao vs. Barrios: The Comeback Fight
After stepping away from boxing after his defeat to Ugas, Pacquiao has stayed involved with exhibition matches and has continued to fuel speculation about his return. His performance in the ring, even in exhibitions, shows that the fire is still there.
However, as of now, Pacquiao has not officially confirmed any fights, and he can’t do so until after May 12, which marks the end of his campaign to become a Senator in the Philippines.
That said, the talks for a potential matchup with Mario Barrios are now “back on,” according to multiple credible sources like Sports Illustrated, Boxing News, and Brunch Boxing. Though nothing is finalized yet, the idea of a Manny Pacquiao comeback, with a fight against Barrios in 2025, has many boxing fans excited.
Barrios, who most recently fought to a draw against Abel Ramos in November, is considered one of the top challengers in the welterweight division, and a fight with Pacquiao would be a huge event.
Why Pacquiao vs. Barrios Is a Big Deal
Manny Pacquiao has already made history in the boxing world. He became the oldest welterweight champion in history when he defeated Keith Thurman for the WBA title at 147 pounds in July 2019, at the age of 40. With that record in hand, the question arises: can Pacquiao return to break his own record?
At 46 years old, Pacquiao is far from the typical age for a professional boxer, but given his accomplishments, fans wouldn’t be shocked to see him back in action. He’s a multi-weight champion, and has proven time and again that he can defy expectations. If Pacquiao comes back to fight Barrios, it could be a defining moment in boxing history. Even though Barrios is 29 and younger, Pacquiao has never been one to back down from a fight.
The appeal of a Manny Pacquiao comeback is well beyond their age difference. It’s the chance to see a Hall of Famer fight a young star in the sport. Pacquiao’s legacy is already cemented, but a comeback would add another legendary chapter to his career. If he were to defeat Barrios, it would be another feat that solidifies his place as one of boxing’s greatest legends.
What’s Next for Pacquiao and Barrios?
Though the news that Pacquiao’s team is back in talks with Barrios sounds exciting, there’s still a long way to go before any official announcement. Pacquiao’s political career will likely determine his next move because he cannot make any concrete boxing plans until his senate run is concluded.
That being said, should Pacquiao’s political venture fall through, there is a chance that he will attempt a ring return. People want to know whether Pacquiao will choose to fight Barrios or look for another opponent. In any case, the boxing community is buzzing over this possible Manny Pacquiao comeback once more, especially among those who never gave up on him returning to the top.
In a sport where anything can happen, it goes without saying that Pacquiao’s journey is far from done. Whether he gets back into the ring to face Barrios or someone else, the world will be holding its breath in anticipation. And who knows — perhaps we’ll witness yet another amazing chapter in the career of a true boxing legend.
