Manny Pacquiao Set To Return Against Mario Barrios

Manny Pacquiao will be returning to the boxing ring and will face Mario Barrios.

It was reported that Pacquiao will return for a title fight against Barrios as discussions are in deep talks for the bout to take place. The date or location is not certain at this time.

“We’re still in under negotiation,” the 45-year-old Pacquiao said of the possible Barrios fight for the WBC welterweight title (via Toronto Sun). “And, we’re talking about that. The fight is not materialized yet. But that negotiation is ongoing.”

However, before that fight can happen, Pacquiao will return to face Japanese MMA fighter Chihiro Suzuki on July 28. After that fight, Pacquiao will turn his attention to Barrios.

“I just want to say to everybody. This is not an exhibition. This is a fight, a three-round fight,” Pacquiao said. “We will be looking for a knockout for this fight. So you better watch, and it’s going to be a lot of action in the ring. And, of course, I’ll do my best to win by knockout. Thank you.”

Manny Pacquiao hasn’t boxed since August of 2021 when he suffered a decision loss to Yordenis Ugas and hinted at retirement after that fight. Before the loss to Ugas, Pacquiao picked up three straight wins over Keith Thurman, Adrien Broner, and Lucas Matthysse.

Mario Barrios, meanwhile, is 29-2 and coming off a decision win over Fabian Maidana, Yordenis Ugas, and Jovanie Santiago.