LAS VEGAS — At 46 years old, Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao is once again on the verge of rewriting boxing history. The Filipino icon and newly inducted International Boxing Hall of Famer returns to the ring this Saturday, July 19, when he challenges WBC Welterweight World Champion Mario “El Azteca” Barrios in the main event of a PBC Pay-Per-View on Prime Video from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.
If victorious, Pacquiao would break his own record as the oldest welterweight world champion and become the first fighter in history to win a major world title after Hall of Fame induction—an accomplishment that would further cement his place among the sport’s immortals.
“The fire, determination and eagerness to work hard is still there,” said Pacquiao. “I’m still enjoying running the mountains. This is a blessing… I’m back. It would mean a lot for me to become world champion again.”
Pacquiao Returns to His Vegas Fortress
July 19 marks Pacquiao’s 16th fight at the MGM Grand, making him the most active fighter in the venue’s history. It will also be his 15th main event, tying Floyd Mayweather’s record, and his 13th title fight at the venue—surpassing Mayweather’s previous mark.
The eight-division world champion has already beaten 12 Mexican or Mexican-American fighters since 2003, including legends like Oscar De La Hoya, Juan Manuel Marquez, Erik Morales, and Marco Antonio Barrera. Now, he faces another in Barrios, a hungry 29-year-old champion with youth and momentum on his side.
Barrios Favored, But Pacquiao Has Believers
Oddsmakers have installed Barrios as the favorite, with boxing analysts such as Stephen “Breadman” Edwards noting the challenge ahead for the aging legend.
“It’s hard to even imagine someone being off for a few years and then coming back at 46 and winning it,” said Edwards. “If anyone can do it, Manny can—but I’m favoring Barrios.”
However, many within the boxing community still believe Pacquiao has one more magic moment left.
“I believe Pacquiao is going to beat Barrios,” said former champ Shawn Porter, who once sparred with Manny. “Everyone’s talking about his age, but I think this old man is always going to be too much—until he hangs up the gloves.”
“Pacquiao is a high-tempo fighter, and Barrios has struggled with that pace,” added Gary Antuanne Russell, the WBA Super Lightweight World Champion. “I’m leaning toward Manny being victorious.”
Even Marco Antonio Barrera, once defeated by Pacquiao in a career-defining fight, backed the Filipino great:
“He’s a superb warrior. I’d like to see Pacquiao win because of the legend that he is.”
Legendary Moments, Lasting Legacy
Former opponents and boxing icons shared their favorite “Manny Moments” in the lead-up to the fight:
- Keith Thurman: “Any time he busted off those eight-punch combos—world-class competition on the ropes, and boom, he just lets loose.”
- Marco Antonio Barrera: “When he beat De La Hoya. I thought it was impossible… and then he stayed seated, and it was over.”
- Shawn Porter: “I got to spar with him in the Philippines. He hit me with a straight left and woke me up. That dude’s got some power.”
Fight Details:
- Event: Pacquiao vs. Barrios – WBC Welterweight World Title
- Date: Saturday, July 19, 2025
- Venue: MGM Grand Garden Arena, Las Vegas
- Broadcast: PBC Pay-Per-View on Prime Video (also available via cable, satellite & PPV.com)
- Start Time: 8 PM ET / 5 PM PT
While Barrios may be the betting favorite, Pacquiao remains the emotional pick for millions around the globe. Win or lose, July 19 will be another chapter in a legendary career that continues to defy logic—and inspire generations.
“Manny Pacquiao is always giving surprises to the fans,” said Pacquiao. “That’s my passion.”
Roberto Villa is the CEO, Founder, Executive Writer, Senior Editor of FightBook MMA. Has a passion for Combat Sports and also a podcast host for Sitting Ringside. He’s also a former MMA fighter and Kickboxer.
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