Manny Pacquiao’s Return to Boxing
Manny Pacquiao, the renowned Filipino boxer, is preparing for an exciting return to the ring next month, reigniting his long-standing enthusiasm for the sport after a four-year hiatus. The 46-year-old former champion will face Mario Barrios, the World Boxing Council welterweight titleholder, in Las Vegas on July 19, marking his first match since a defeat in 2019.
Training and Preparation
This comeback is notable as Pacquiao has rekindled his collaboration with veteran trainer Freddie Roach, a relationship that has significantly shaped his successful career. During a press session at Wild Card gym in Hollywood, where he has been training, Pacquiao expressed his renewed vigor, stating:
“Four years of rest has been good for me.”
The fighter demonstrated remarkable speed and agility during training, emphasizing his satisfaction with his current condition.
“I can still keep up with the young boxers, so I’m happy.”
This underscores his rigorous training regimen and focus on recovery.
Reflections on Aging and Future Plans
Nonetheless, Pacquiao acknowledged that aging has led to slightly longer recovery periods, but he believes this has not hindered his performance.
“I’ve missed boxing… the passion, the fire in my eyes, it’s still there.”
This highlights his eagerness to engage in significant fights once again.
While Pacquiao refrained from making predictions about his future in the sport after the upcoming bout, he remained optimistic, stating:
“We can plan whatever we want after this fight.”
This uncertainty around his future has sparked concern among some commentators, including British promoter Eddie Hearn, who noted that Barrios is likely to be “too young and too strong” for the seasoned fighter. Pacquiao’s lighthearted reply to these remarks was simple:
“Just watch on July 19th. It will be a good fight.”
A Legacy in the Making
As one of the most decorated boxers in history, with 12 world titles across eight weight classes since he started his professional journey in 1995, Pacquiao’s comeback is not just about personal achievement but also about proving his enduring legacy within the sport.
