Philippines boxing legend Manny Pacquiao has no plans of moving away from the sport, with his promoter and president of MP Manny Pacquiao Promotions, Sean Gibbons, confirming that the icon has one more big fight left in him. Pacquiao, a name synonymous with boxing excellence, continues to defy age and expectations as he remains eager to compete at the highest levels of the sport.
It was recently reported that Pacquiao is eager to fight in the welterweight category, with the 45-year-old eyeing a challenge for the World Boxing Council (WBC) welterweight title. Gibbons confirmed the news after it emerged that current WBC Interim Welterweight champion Mario Barrios will have an opportunity to become the full title winner. This development has created a buzz in the boxing community, with fans eagerly anticipating a potential clash between two formidable fighters.
In news that would delight Pacquiao’s camp, Mario Barrios was recently elevated to the welterweight world champion by the WBC Board of Governors after they granted Terrence Crawford the champion in recess status. This change in status paves the way for a high-stakes bout that promises to be a thrilling encounter.
Barrios’ trainer Bob Santos, in an interaction with Boxing Scene, confirmed that the proposed fight between the duo is “very realistic.” Santos expressed confidence in the feasibility of the match, highlighting the mutual desire from both camps to make it happen.
“That fight is very realistic. Very realistic. Manny wants the fight, we want the fight, and the WBC has already said they would approve the fight. I’m sure it would take place probably in the fall. It’s just a matter of where we would do the fight, Texas or Las Vegas. But we have agreed that we would fight him, he’s agreed, and it’s right there on the table. Let’s see how it plays out. We have got to find a venue for the fight, and I think it would be great,” Santos stated.
Pacquiao has not been seen in a competitive fight since losing to Yordenis Ugas via a unanimous decision in August 2021. At 45 years old, many believe that the former eight-division world champion is past his prime, raising concerns over his ability to face an opponent who is not only 16 years younger but also a two-division champion.
Santos, for his part, does not subscribe to such suggestions, claiming that Pacquiao has earned the right to do whatever he wants and that age has nothing to do with it, considering that he beat Keith Thurman when he was over 40.
“Manny has earned the right, for everything he has done for the sport. A lot of people talk about, ‘He’s 45 now.’ Well, you all are the same people that said he was 40 or 41 before he beat Keith Thurman. So, he has earned that right if he wants to fight for a world title. He’s shown he still has good hand speed. I have seen some of his workouts, so if this something he wants to do, you have to take it very seriously.
“People are like, ‘He lost to Yordenis Ugas.’ Well, guess what? He had only 10 days to prepare for Ugas because the opponent he was preparing for (Errol Spence Jr.) fell out. People have short memories. They don’t look at all the factors and what’s going on,” Santos added.
Pacquiao’s career is a testament to his resilience and enduring talent. Despite his age, he continues to train rigorously and maintains a level of fitness that would be enviable for athletes half his age. His performance against Keith Thurman, where he won via a split decision, is a clear indication that he still possesses the skill and speed that made him a boxing legend.
While there is no definite date set or information on a fight with Barrios, Pacquiao will next be seen in action when he faces Japanese Rizin Featherweight Champion Chihiro Suzuki in a three-round exhibition fight at the Saitama Arena on July 28. The clash will be staged under the banner of Rizin Fighting Federation, and this will be the first time in over a decade that he will be fighting outside his usual, standard fighting weight.
RIZIN has imposed a $5,000,000 fine to ensure rules are followed in former K-1 champion Rukiya Anpo's bout against boxing legend Manny Pacquiao.
— Combat Sports UK (@CombatSportsUK) July 22, 2024
Rukiya Anpo will be fined $5 Million if he attempts to throw a leg kick in this fight#RIZIN杯 pic.twitter.com/5V4rrL5CqK
This exhibition match, although not as high-profile as a title fight, serves as a way for Pacquiao to stay active and maintain his fighting form. Exhibition bouts have become increasingly popular among retired or semi-retired fighters, allowing them to continue competing without the intense pressures of a professional bout.
Pacquiao's decision to continue fighting also has significant implications for the sport of boxing in the Philippines. As a national hero, his involvement in high-profile fights brings considerable attention and excitement to the sport, inspiring a new generation of Filipino boxers. His legacy extends beyond his achievements in the ring; Pacquiao is a symbol of perseverance and determination.
The potential fight against Barrios is not just a contest between two athletes but a clash of different boxing eras. Barrios, who is in his prime, represents the new generation of boxers, while Pacquiao, with his vast experience and legendary status, symbolizes the golden age of boxing. This dynamic adds an intriguing layer to the matchup, making it a must-watch event for boxing enthusiasts around the world.
Moreover, the involvement of the WBC in approving the fight adds to its legitimacy and appeal. The WBC's endorsement means that the bout will be recognized officially, and the winner will have a legitimate claim to the welterweight title. This recognition is crucial for both fighters, as it adds prestige and stakes to the fight.
The choice of venue will also play a critical role in the fight's success. Texas and Las Vegas are both iconic locations for boxing matches, each offering unique advantages. Texas, with its large venues and passionate boxing fans, could provide an electric atmosphere, while Las Vegas, known as the fight capital of the world, offers unparalleled prestige and exposure.
As we await further developments, one thing is certain: a potential clash between Manny Pacquiao and Mario Barrios promises to be an unforgettable spectacle. Fans around the world will be eagerly watching as two warriors prepare to enter the ring, each with their legacy and future on the line.
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