(May 9th) Numerous reports have General Santos City, Philippines, boxing icon Manny “Pac-Man” Pacquiao, the sport’s only eight-division world champion, returning to the ring at age 46. Pacquiao will challenge reigning WBC Welterweight Champion Mario “El Azteca” Barrios on July 19th at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, headlining a blockbuster Premier Boxing Champions event broadcast live on pay-per-view via Prime Video.

Pacquiao, 62-8-2, 39Ko’s, who last fought professionally in August 2021, losing a unanimous decision to Miami, Florida, former WBA Welterweight Champion Yordenis “54 Milagros” Ugas

seeks to reclaim welterweight glory after nearly four years away from championship action. The Filipino legend’s comeback comes just weeks after his induction into the International Boxing Hall of Fame, marking a historic chapter in a career that has captivated fans worldwide.

San Antonio, Texas, 29-year-old, Barrios, 29-2-1, 18Ko’s known for his height, reach, and aggressive orthodox style, captured the belt in June 2024 and is currently ranked No. 3 at welterweight by The Ring. Barrios with notable wins over Yordenis Ugas and Fabian Maidana is coming off a November 2024 split draw against Casa Grande, Arizona, journeyman, Abel Ramos.

WBC President Mauricio Sulaiman has sanctioned the bout, utilizing the organization’s rule that allows former champions to challenge for their belts upon returning to the sport. The fight has already ignited debate among fans and pundits, with some questioning the merit of Pacquiao’s immediate title shot, while others celebrate the return of one of boxing’s most beloved figures.

Pacquiao, who has been balancing his political ambitions with his athletic career, is reportedly already in training and confident he can compete at the highest level. According to sources close to the fighter, Pacquiao believes he has “two or three fights” left in him and is eager to remind the world of his greatness.

The tentative July 19th event promises high drama and global attention, as Pacquiao aims to defy age and the odds against a hungry, younger champion in Barrios. The fight believed to be already signed and imminent Pacquiao was a Senator in the Philippines June 30th, 2016, to June 30th, 2022

currently in the midst of a close election to win his seat back the official announcement will not happen until after the May 12th election. 

About the Premier Boxing Champions

Premier Boxing Champions (PBC), was created for television by Haymon Sports, LLC, in January 2015.  PBC is a boxing series that returns the sweet science to its rightful place atop the sports pantheon.

Featuring today’s best and brightest stars in their toughest, most anticipated bouts, Premier Boxing Champions is broadcast live and free to air on SHOWTIME, FOX, FOX Sports 1, FOX Deportes, Bounce and ITV.

PBC takes boxing back to its roots. This is boxing, pure and simple, where what’s brought to the fight, mentally and physically, is what determines who goes home the winner, and who just goes home.

Bouts featured within the PBC Series are promoted by licensed promoters, with each bout in accordance with applicable regulatory rules and regulations.