46-Year-Old Manny Pacquiao Shocks Boxing World – Title Fight vs. Mario Barrios Confirmed!
Manny Pacquiao is officially ending his nearly four-year retirement to challenge WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios on July 19, 2025, in Las Vegas. The bout will headline a Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) pay-per-view event on Prime Video.
🥊 Fight Details
Date: July 19, 2025 Location: Las Vegas (venue to be confirmed; MGM Grand Garden Arena is a likely option) Broadcast: PBC on Prime Video PPV Title at Stake: WBC Welterweight Championship
Pacquiao, 46, last fought professionally in August 2021, losing a unanimous decision to Yordenis Ugas. Since then, he has focused on his political career in the Philippines. Despite his hiatus, the WBC reinstated him at No. 5 in their welterweight rankings, citing a rule that allows former champions to request title shots upon returning from retirement .
🧠 Fighter Profiles
Manny Pacquiao (62-8-2, 39 KOs)
The only boxer to win world titles in eight weight divisions. Last held a world title in 2019, defeating Keith Thurman to become the oldest welterweight champion at age 40. Inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in June 2025. Recently lost a bid for a Senate seat in the Philippines, finishing 18th in the May 12 election .
Mario Barrios (29-2-1, 18 KOs)
Current WBC welterweight champion since June 2024. Notable victories include a unanimous decision over Yordenis Ugas and a win against Fabian Maidana. Fought to a split draw against Abel Ramos in November 2024, retaining his title .
⚖️ Public Reaction & Controversy
The announcement of Pacquiao’s return has sparked debate within the boxing community. Critics argue that granting a title shot to a 46-year-old who hasn’t fought professionally in four years undermines the sport’s integrity. Former world champion and pundit Spencer Oliver labeled the decision a “disgrace,” expressing concerns over Pacquiao’s health and the precedent it sets .
Conversely, supporters highlight Pacquiao’s legendary status and the WBC’s rule permitting former champions to challenge for titles upon return. WBC President Mauricio Sulaiman defended the decision, emphasizing Pacquiao’s desire to retire as a WBC champion, having first won a world title in the flyweight division .
🔮 Outlook
This bout presents a compelling narrative: a seasoned legend aiming for a final crowning achievement versus a younger champion seeking to solidify his reign. While Pacquiao’s experience and legacy are unparalleled, questions about his current form and stamina persist. Barrios, at 30, possesses youth and recent activity on his side, but faces the pressure of defending his title against a boxing icon.
As the fight approaches, anticipation builds around whether Pacquiao can defy age and expectations, or if Barrios will usher in a new era by toppling a legend.
