Boxing Update: Manny Pacquiao Approved for Title Fight at 45
In a move that has electrified the boxing world, 45-year-old Manny Pacquiao, the Filipino legend, has received approval from the WBC to fight Mario Barrios for the welterweight title. Pacquiao, who last fought professionally in 2021 against Yordenis Ugas, has expressed a burning desire to return to the ring and prove that age is just a number.
The Return of a Legend
Pacquiao’s potential comeback has been a hot topic among boxing enthusiasts. WBC President Mauricio Sulaiman confirmed the council’s decision to approve Pacquiao’s return.
“I do like the idea very much. I think Pacquiao can beat any fighter or be competitive with any fighter today,” Sulaiman stated.
This endorsement opens the door for Pacquiao to face Mario Barrios, who was recently elevated to full WBC welterweight champion after Terence Crawford moved up to the super-welterweight division.
Pacquiao vs. Barrios: A Clash of Eras
Despite Frenchman Souleymane Cissokho being the mandatory challenger for Barrios, the WBC has opted to allow Pacquiao as a wildcard entrant. Michael Benson’s tweet on X encapsulated the excitement:
“WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman has confirmed that they would approve Manny Pacquiao fighting Mario Barrios for the WBC welterweight world title at age 45.”
Sulaiman added, “Manny Pacquiao is timeless. He’s a legend. We have great precedent of former champions coming back as long as they pass successfully all the medical examinations.”
Pacquiao’s Determination and Legacy
Pacquiao’s enthusiasm for a return stems from his belief that he still has what it takes to compete at the highest level. Since his retirement, Pacquiao has stayed active through exhibition bouts, and he is set to fight Japanese kickboxer and former K-1 super lightweight champion Rukiya Anpo on July 28th. This exhibition could serve as a precursor to his anticipated clash with Barrios.
“I made history at 40 beating Keith Thurman and I feel at 45, I have a lot left in the game as I haven’t taken a lot of punishment over the last few years,” Pacquiao remarked.
His impressive record and undiminished passion for the sport fuel his desire to face a younger, formidable opponent like Barrios. “I want to go out making history,” he declared, underscoring his ambition to secure one last monumental victory before hanging up his gloves for good.
“WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman has confirmed that they would approve Manny Pacquiao fighting Mario Barrios for the WBC welterweight world title at age 45: “I do like the idea very much. I think Pacquiao can beat any fighter or be competitive with any fighter today.”
Editor’s Note
Manny Pacquiao’s story is one of relentless passion and an indomitable spirit. At 45, his decision to return to the professional boxing ring is a testament to his enduring love for the sport and his unyielding desire to continue making history. As fans and critics alike await his bout with Mario Barrios, one thing is certain: Pacquiao’s legacy is already etched in the annals of boxing history, and his upcoming fight promises to add another thrilling chapter.
