Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao is no stranger to rewriting boxing history. At age 46, the Filipino icon and eight-division world champion is reportedly eyeing a sensational return to professional boxing. The target? A WBC welterweight title bout against reigning champion Mario Barrios on July 19, 2025, at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
The buzz is deafening not just because Pacquiao might fight again, but because he’s aiming for a world title in his fifth decade as a pro. And while official confirmation is pending, sources from WBC, ESPN, and PBC have already sparked confidence in the fight’s legitimacy.
| Detail | Information |
| Fighters | Manny Pacquiao vs. Mario Barrios |
| Date | July 19, 2025 |
| Venue | T-Mobile Arena, Las Vegas |
| Title at Stake | WBC Welterweight Championship |
| Broadcaster | Amazon Prime Video (unconfirmed) |
| Promoter | Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) |
| Co-Main Event | Fundora vs. Tszyu |
| Status | Confirmed by sources, pending official release |
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With a record of 62 wins (39 KOs), 8 losses, and 2 draws, Pacquiao isn't just a boxer he's a living legend. He’s the only fighter in history to win world titles in eight divisions, a feat unlikely to be repeated.
His last professional bout? A tough unanimous decision loss to Yordenis Ugas in 2021. Since then, he’s juggled politics and boxing, running for president in 2022 and now campaigning for Senate re-election in 2025.
This comeback is more than just another fight it's a statement. A chance to prove he still has what it takes to compete at the elite level despite his age and recent exhibition struggles.
It’s actually happening 😳
— Happy Punch (@HappyPunch) May 8, 2025
Manny Pacquiao is fighting Mario Barrios for the WBC welterweight championship on July 19th in Las Vegas 🤯
(via @ESPNRingside) pic.twitter.com/rT3jEhcCzm
Barrios is no walk in the park. Known for his aggressive style, fast hands, and cardio that doesn’t quit, he’s built for war. And with recent big-name opponents under his belt, including Gervonta Davis and Keith Thurman, he’s been thoroughly tested.
Barrios isn’t just any titleholder he’s a two-division world champion. His belt collection tells a story of grit, skill, and upward momentum.
| Title | Years Held | Key Victories |
| WBA (Regular) Super Lightweight | 2019–2021 | Batyr Akhmedov, Ryan Karl |
| Interim WBC Welterweight | 2023–2024 | Yordenis Ugas |
| WBC Welterweight (Full) | 2024–Present | Abel Ramos (title retention via draw) |
Facing Pacquiao might be his biggest challenge yet but it could also be his biggest payday and defining victory.
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Despite widespread coverage and strong signals from the WBC President, media outlets, and even PBC’s venue reservations, the fight still awaits official confirmation. The delay is largely due to Pacquiao’s ongoing Senate campaign, with elections concluding on May 12, 2025.
However, ESPN reports, X posts from reputable insiders, and PBC's arena booking all point to a green light.
While preparing for what might be his final fight, Pacquiao is simultaneously running a campaign to regain a Senate seat in the Philippines. It’s a tricky balancing act, but not out of character for a man who’s constantly defied expectations.
Let’s be real 46 is no small number in boxing. His 2024 exhibition match against Rukiya Anpo was underwhelming, and critics question whether he can take punches from a prime fighter like Barrios. Still, his team insists he’s in top shape, mentally and physically.
Manny "Pacman" Pacquiao vs Mario Barrios is shaping up to be more than just a boxing match. It’s a cultural moment, blending politics, legacy, and athleticism in one high-stakes event. While we wait for the final stamp of approval, all signs suggest that July 19 will mark another historic night in the sweet science.
If you're feeling lucky, OKBet is already buzzing with anticipation. Once the fight is officially announced, expect odds, promotions, and pre-fight specials to roll out fast. See the Odds of the fight on the best sportsbook betting site OKBet.
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As of now, the fight is confirmed by sources like ESPN and the WBC but awaits an official announcement, likely after the May 12 Philippine Senate election.
The bout is scheduled to be held at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
The WBC Welterweight Championship currently held by Mario Barrios.
While not yet official, Amazon Prime Video is rumored to be the broadcaster.
Barrios holds a record of 29 wins (18 KOs), 2 losses, and 1 draw.
His team claims he's fight-ready, but skepticism remains following a lackluster 2024 exhibition bout.
