MANILA — Boxing legend and former senator Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao is officially returning to the ring.
On Tuesday, May 21, Pacquiao announced that he will face reigning WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios in a high-stakes title bout scheduled for July 19 (Saturday) in Las Vegas.
The fight marks Pacquiao’s long-awaited comeback to professional boxing, nearly four years after his last match against Yordenis Ugas in August 2021, where he suffered a unanimous decision loss.
The 45-year-old boxing icon’s return comes just weeks after a disappointing run in the 2025 senatorial elections, where he landed in the 18th spot with 10,397,133 votes—falling short of rejoining the Senate.
Now back in training, Pacquiao is eyeing another shot at glory in the squared circle as he prepares to go toe-to-toe with the 29-year-old Barrios, known for his resilience and punching power.
Boxing fans worldwide are eagerly anticipating the return of the “People’s Champ,” hoping to witness another electrifying chapter in Pacquiao’s storied career.