Warm-Up for WBC Title Shot
Manny Pacquiao is gearing up for a potential shot at the WBC welterweight title with an exhibition match in Japan. The legendary boxer will face RIZIN champion Chihiro Suzuki on July 28 at the Super Saitama Arena during the Super RIZIN 3 event.
Press Conference Face-Off
Pacquiao and Suzuki met at a press conference organized by RIZIN boss Nobuyuki Sakakibara, where Suzuki boldly displayed his title belts and issued a stern warning to Pacquiao. “With all due respect, I’m going to knock you out in the first round,” declared Suzuki, the current RIZIN Featherweight and KNOCK OUT Black super lightweight champion.
Pacquiao’s Response
In response to Suzuki’s threat, Pacquiao confidently stated, “I will let him know that boxing is harder than MMA.” The upcoming match marks Pacquiao’s return to the ring ahead of a potential title fight with Mario Barrios later this year.
Potential WBC Title Fight
Talks are underway for Pacquiao to challenge Mario Barrios for the WBC welterweight title this fall. WBC President Mauricio Sulaiman and Barrios’ coach Bob Santos have both expressed their support for the bout. “If the WBC receives a petition for Manny Pacquiao to fight for the welterweight title, it would naturally go through a vote of the board,” Sulaiman told World Boxing News.
Barrios’ Team on Board
Bob Santos, Barrios’ coach, also expressed enthusiasm for the potential match-up. “I think it’s great anytime your name can be mentioned with Manny Pacquiao. That’s always a good thing,” Santos said. He highlighted Pacquiao’s excellent physical condition and the exciting style match-up the fight would present.
Historical Precedents
Sulaiman referenced historical precedents, such as Sugar Ray Leonard fighting Marvin Hagler after successfully passing all medicals, to support the possibility of Pacquiao’s title shot. This comparison underscores the significance and legitimacy of Pacquiao’s potential return to championship contention.
Pacquiao’s Fitness and Longevity
Santos emphasized Pacquiao’s consistent fitness, noting that he always stays in great shape, which contributes to his longevity in the sport. “The one thing about Pacquiao is that he always keeps himself in great shape. Never see him overweight; therefore, guys like him can last a long, long time,” Santos remarked.
Barrios’ Challenge-Seeking Nature
Mario Barrios is known for seeking out the best challenges, and a fight with Pacquiao fits this mold perfectly. “The one thing Mario Barrios is always about is challenges. He’s always looking for the best possible challenges, and that’s what he’ll continue to be about,” Santos concluded.
Future Plans: Mayweather Rematch?
After the exhibition match with Suzuki, Pacquiao has hinted at a possible rematch with Floyd Mayweather, potentially under the RIZIN promotional banner. The “Pac-Man” announced last year that he intends to face Mayweather in a rematch during a RIZIN event, possibly on New Year’s Eve. Whether this materializes depends on Mayweather’s willingness to step back into the ring with Pacquiao.
RIZIN Appearance and Beyond
First, Pacquiao must get through Suzuki in his promised RIZIN appearance. This match will set the stage for his fall bout with Barrios and potentially a high-profile rematch with Mayweather. Fans eagerly await to see how these developments unfold.
Pacquiao’s Continuing Legacy
As Pacquiao prepares for these upcoming challenges, his legacy as one of boxing’s greatest champions continues to grow. His ability to stay relevant and competitive in the sport, even as he approaches his mid-40s, is a testament to his dedication and skill.
