Boxing Comeback: Pacquiao Set to Face Barrios in July Showdown
1 min read
MAY19,2025
LOS ANGELES — Boxing return alert: Manny Pacquiao has officially landed in Los Angeles to announce his return to the ring. The Filipino legend, now 46, is stepping back into professional boxing after a four-year hiatus, ready to face WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios in a highly anticipated showdown. This move comes after his unsuccessful bid for a Senate seat in the 2025 Philippine elections. Pacquiao has now shifted his full focus back to boxing.
He last fought professionally in August 2021, losing to Cuba’s Yordenis Ugas by unanimous decision. Since then, he stayed active with exhibition bouts—first against Korean vlogger DK Yoo in 2022, then against Japanese kickboxer Rukiya Anpo in early 2025.
Pacquiao now prepares for his 73rd pro bout, facing the much younger Barrios (29-2-1, 18 KOs). At 30 years old and standing 5’9”, Barrios has the clear advantage in youth, height, and recent ring activity.
Still, the WBC ranks Pacquiao No. 5, giving its nod to the upcoming bout.
Videos circulating over the weekend show Pacquiao training on the mitts and pounding the heavy bag. With the fight set for July in Las Vegas, he has over a month to get into top shape.
“We can train hard for this fight. It’s a very important fight,” said Buboy Fernandez, Pacquiao’s childhood friend and trainer, speaking to reporters at the airport.
Fans are now wondering if Pacquiao will reunite with longtime coach Freddie Roach at the Wild Card Gym in Hollywood. However, there’s no confirmation yet.
“Freddie told me he hasn’t heard from Manny. I haven’t either,” said Fred Sternburg, Roach’s representative.
After the LA press event, Pacquiao is expected to return briefly to the Philippines. He will then head back to the U.S. for his induction into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in early June.
Following the ceremony in Canastota, New York, Pacquiao will stay in the U.S. to complete his training camp for the Barrios fight. NOWTREND
Boxing comeback, Pacquiao is once again capturing global attention
With the announcement of his boxing comeback, Pacquiao is once again capturing global attention—not just as a legendary fighter, but as a symbol of perseverance and passion. Fans from around the world are eager to see how he will fare against a younger, dangerous opponent in Barrios.
This fight won’t just test Pacquiao’s physical limits—it will also showcase the heart and discipline that made him a global icon. For many Filipino fans, his return offers renewed hope and national pride.
Whether Pacquiao adds another title to his storied career or simply ends on his own terms, his comeback marks a historic moment in the world of boxing. One thing’s for sure: Manny Pacquiao is not done writing history.
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