WeeklySA_AdminHISTORY: The Filipino wants to defy age to become oldest world boxing champion
By Sports Reporter
Manny Pacquiao has announced his return to the ring aged 46 and almost four years after his last fight. The Filipino says he will face WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios on 19 July in Las Vegas.
Pacquiao is now aiming to become boxing’s oldest welterweight world champion. “I’m back,” Pacquiao said on social media. “Let’s make history.”
Pacquiao currently holds the record for the oldest welterweight champion, when he beat Keith Thurman in 2019 to claim the WBA (Super) world title aged 40. The WBC controversially reinstated Pacquiao into their rankings at number five last week as speculation about his return mounted.
The WBC president Mauricio Suliman defended the decision, saying: “Pacquiao has been licensed by Nevada and passed all medicals and as legendary WBC champion has been approved to fight by our organisation.”
Pacquiao last fought in August 2021, when he lost on points to Yordenis Ugas. The boxing legend is a four-time welterweight champion and has an overall record of 62 fights, eight losses and two draws.
Since retiring from boxing he has been involved in politics in his home country, but last week failed in his bid to become elected to the Philippines senate.
Although detractors are quick to discount Pacquiao’s chances, there are grounds to think he might still have a chance as he returns to the ring at the age of 46.
The reunion between Pacquiao and renowned trainer Freddie Roach is one of the biggest events leading up to his fight with Mario Barrios on July 19. The two have had great success together in the past, and their renewed collaboration may give Pacquiao’s training and approach a boost as he aims to win the WBC welterweight championship. Barrios poses a significant challenge because he is 17 years younger and has recently put up impressive performances.
He is a deadly opponent because of his youth, strength, and momentum. Even at this advanced point in his career, Pacquiao still has a lot of experience, and few boxers have the speed, agility, and ring IQ like he does. With Roach back at his side, Manny will be led by a recognizable voice that knows how to bring out the best in the Filipino icon. Many of Pacquiao’s greatest triumphs, including commanding triumphs over opponents like Ricky Hatton and Miguel Cotto, have been made possible by Roach.
