Manny Pacquiao announces boxing comeback at 46

Boxing legend Manny Pacquiao has officially confirmed his return to the ring at the age of 46, nearly four years after retiring from the sport.

The former eight-division world champion is set to face current WBC welterweight titleholder Mario Barrios on 19 July in Las Vegas.

Announcing the bout via social media, Pacquiao stated: “I’m back. Let’s make history.”

A victory would see the Filipino icon reclaim the record as the oldest welterweight world champion, a milestone he previously set in 2019 when he defeated Keith Thurman to win the WBA (Super) title at the age of 40.

The World Boxing Council (WBC) recently reinstated Pacquiao into its welterweight rankings at number five, a move that has sparked debate among fans and boxing analysts alike. Defending the decision, WBC President Mauricio Sulaiman said: “Pacquiao has been licensed by Nevada, passed all medicals, and as a legendary WBC champion, he’s been cleared to fight by our organisation.”

Pacquiao’s last professional bout was in August 2021, when he lost on points to Yordenis Ugas. He retired shortly afterwards, concluding an illustrious career with 62 wins, 8 losses, and 2 draws, including four world titles in the welterweight division.

Since leaving the sport, Pacquiao has remained active in Philippine politics, though he recently failed in a bid to return to the Senate. Now, he is turning his attention once more to the sport that made him a household name, with hopes of making history yet again.