Manny Pacquiao is set to make a highly anticipated return to the boxing ring after a four-year hiatus, challenging WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios on July 19, 2023, at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. This announcement, reported by ESPN in May, has generated considerable excitement among fans and the boxing community, as Pacquiao aims to solidify his legacy as one of the sport’s greatest champions.
Freddie Roach, Pacquiao’s long-time trainer, learned of the boxer’s comeback through media reports, which prompted a whirlwind of emotions. Reflecting on their past successes, Roach expressed both excitement and concern over Pacquiao’s decision to re-enter the sport. “At one point, I wanted to call him up and ask him and his wife to make the right decision and just retire,” Roach recalled. “And then a couple hours later, I wanted to call them up and say, ‘Yeah, let’s make it happen.’”
A Legendary Journey
The last time Roach worked alongside Pacquiao, the duo faced a setback in 2021 during a points loss to Yordenis Ugas. At the time, the 42-year-old Pacquiao showed signs of age, which raised questions about his ability to compete at the highest level. With a record of 62 wins, 8 losses, and 2 draws, Pacquiao has achieved remarkable success across eight weight divisions, making him a significant figure in boxing history.
Following his retirement, Pacquiao ventured into politics, unsuccessfully campaigning for the presidency of the Philippines in 2022. However, his passion for boxing remained evident. “It is really hard to give up your passion,” Pacquiao stated. “After four years, I realized that it’s good for my body to rest. And I can still feel the fire in my heart to push my limits, to continue my career.”
Roach recognizes the unique challenges athletes face when returning to the ring, noting that few fighters possess the self-awareness to know when to retire. The trainer expressed his commitment to ensuring Pacquiao’s readiness: “I would never put a fighter back in the ring when he’s not prepared. I would never do that.”
Training for the Comeback
In preparation for his bout against Barrios, Pacquiao has committed to a rigorous training regimen. He informed Roach that he has been running twice a day and is motivated to fight for the right reasons. “He just misses what he had. He wants it back,” Roach remarked about Pacquiao’s determination.
Barrios, a 30-year-old boxer with a record of 29 wins, 2 losses, and 1 draw, presents a formidable challenge for Pacquiao. Standing seven inches taller than the 5-foot-5 Filipino, Barrios boasts a significant size advantage, complemented by his strong fundamentals. As the reigning WBC champion, he has proven his capabilities in the ring, notably defeating Ugas to claim the interim title.
Pacquiao’s training camp has included a mix of traditional workouts and modern approaches to ensure he remains competitive. Roach has encouraged Pacquiao to focus on recovery and to adapt their training to accommodate the demands of an aging athlete. “Seeing Pacquiao in the ring showing the public what he can do is like living life all over again,” Roach stated, highlighting the emotional connection they share.
As the fight date approaches, anticipation is building among fans and analysts alike, with many questioning whether the 46-year-old Pacquiao can still perform at the elite level he once did. “There’s a big question in the minds of the fans if, at 46, can Manny still fight? Can Manny still win?” he said, radiating enthusiasm and confidence.
With a storied career and a legacy that continues to evolve, Manny Pacquiao’s return to boxing promises to be a significant event in the world of sports. As he embarks on this new chapter, both he and Roach are prepared to face the challenges ahead, driven by their enduring passion for the sport.
