Manny Pacquiao is discussing a comeback battle in opposition to Mario Barrios for the WBC welterweight title on the age of 45.
The Filipino star, who’s a multi-weight world champion, has not fought since a unanimous resolution loss to Yordenis Ugas in August 2021, and had introduced his retirement the next month.
Pacquiao, a former world champion who retired in 2021, spoke in Japan on Monday to advertise a three-round boxing exhibition on July 28 in opposition to Japanese MMA fighter Chihiro Suzuki.
“We’re still in under negotiation,” Pacquiao mentioned of the doable Barrios battle for the WBC welterweight title. “And, we’re talking about that. The fight is not materialised yet. But that negotiation is ongoing.”
Pacquiao hinted any eventual battle could be in November or December, however says his thoughts was on Suzuki.
“I just want to say to everybody: This is not an exhibition. This is a fight, a three-round fight,” Pacquiao mentioned.
“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.”
Suzuki is aware of he’s up in opposition to a legend, saying: “In a way this is a challenge for me.
“It is an actual honour to have the ability to battle in opposition to somebody who has made historical past, so I’ll face him with respect. For me, it is one of many greatest challenges of my life and a take a look at that I’ve to beat.”
Please use Chrome browser for a extra accessible video participant
Do not miss our newest episode of ‘The Gloves Are Off’ that includes cruiserweight rivals Chris Billam-Smith and Richard Riakporhe
Manny Pacquiao Promotions president Sean Gibbons confirmed Pacquiao is aiming so as to add another title triumph to his prolonged checklist of profession achievements.
“Manny is looking at that option to fight Mario Barrios,” Gibbons instructed Sky Sports activities.
“He loves the idea of finishing his career by winning the WBC title. That was his first belt way back.
“So, over the following two weeks, we’re going to attempt to make the battle.”
Manny Pacquiao is aiming to safe another world title triumph
The WBC title grew to become vacant after Terence Crawford was made ‘champion in recess’ by the WBC resulting from his inactivity.
The Texas-based Barrios has a file of 29 victories, with 18 stoppages, and two defeats.
His most notable victory is a factors win over Pacquiao’s conqueror Ugas in September 2023.
