Manny Pacquiao can defeat Mario Barrios as he chases the WBC Welterweight Title.
That is according to Pacquiao’s promotional company manager, Sean Gibbons. Reports indicate that Manny could come out of retirement to face Barrios and make history. The eight-division champion made history by becoming the oldest welterweight champion at 40 when he beat Keith Thurman for the WBA Welterweight Title. A win over Barrios would break his record.
Pacquiao’s last pro fight was a loss to Yordenis Ugas in 2021. He then boxed and beat DK Yoo in an exhibition. Manny will have another exhibition against former K-1 Champion Rukiya Anpo on July 28 in Saitama, Japan. It is a three-rounder on a Super RIZIN 3 card. If Manny comes through, he will target the Barrios fight. Gibbons has given Manny a big chance of winning against Barrios.
“It’s a 50-50 fight but a very winnable fight for Manny. Barrios is the perfect fighter. He has the right style because he’s there to be hit and he brings it. He wants to mix it up. Over the next month or so, we’ll either be able to make the fight or won’t. … It’s very important to get a fight in by December.
This is a very important time right now. We have a very short window. This could be the last year because Manny might run for office next year in the Philippines. Manny is like a fine bottle of wine and getting better and better as he ages. He hasn’t lost his speed, power or passion. He loves to fight. If I didn’t think he could fight at the highest level, I would advise him against it and to do something else,” Gibbons said