Manny Pacquiao will return to the ring for the first time in four years when he takes on Mario Barrios in Las Vegas on July 19.
The 46-year-old Filipino has not fought since a points defeat to Yordenis Ugas in 2021 but will try to become the sport’s oldest welterweight world champion of all time when he faces the American.
I’m back.
On July 19, I return to the ring to face WBC Welterweight Champion Mario Barrios at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.
Let’s make history! #TeamPacquiao 🇵🇭 pic.twitter.com/KEscQEims0
— Manny Pacquiao (@MannyPacquiao) May 21, 2025
Pacquiao wrote on X: “I’m back.
“On July 19, I return to the ring to face WBC Welterweight Champion Mario Barrios at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.
“Let’s make history!”
Is boxing legend too old to make a comeback?
Pacquiao is a four-time welterweight champion having won 52 of his 62 fights and his return will alarm many of his fans.
However, WBC president Mauricio Suliman defended the decision, saying: “Pacquiao has been licensed by Nevada and passed all medicals and as a legendary WBC champion has been approved to fight by our organisation.”
Pacquiao, who has turned to politics after boxing but last week failed to win a seat in the Philippines senate, is the latest in a number of boxers to fight at an advanced age.
The most recent saw Mike Tyson take on Jake Paul in Arlington, Texas last year. The formerYouTuber won on points after a turgid bout.
