Manny Pacquiao is discussing a comeback battle towards 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 choice 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 towards Japanese MMA fighter Chihiro Suzuki.
“We’re still in under negotiation,” Pacquiao mentioned of the attainable 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 can 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 towards a legend, saying: “In a way this is a challenge for me.
“It is an actual honour to have the ability to battle towards 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.”
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Manny Pacquiao Promotions president Sean Gibbons confirmed Pacquiao is aiming so as to add yet another title triumph to his prolonged listing of profession achievements.
“Manny is looking at that option to fight Mario Barrios,” Gibbons advised 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 subsequent two weeks, we’re going to attempt to make the battle.”
Manny Pacquiao is aiming to safe yet another world title triumph
The WBC title turned vacant after Terence Crawford was made ‘champion in recess’ by the WBC attributable to his inactivity.
The Texas-based Barrios has a report 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.
