Manny Pacquiao returns to the sport after four years out to challenge for Mario Barrios’ WBC Welterweight World Title.
Pacquiao, who retired after a bruising loss to Yordenis Ugas back in 2021, has long teased a comeback alongside his political career in the Philippines. Should he win, he would break his own record as boxing’s oldest 147 pound world champion.
Standing in his way is the Mexican-American known as ‘El Azteca,’ who was elevated to full WBC Champion in June 2024 when the belt was vacated by Terence Crawford. He has fought once as champion, retaining the belt with a split draw against Abel Ramos in November of last year. His next defence against Pacquiao takes place on July 19 at the MGM Grand, Las Vegas.
Mario Barrios Attributes
The Texas native fights in the orthodox stance, stands at 6′ tall and boosts a 73″ reach. He made his professional debut in 2013 at 18 after boxing from the age of 11.
Mario Barrios Record
‘El Azteca’ has won 29 fights, lost two and drawn one. He has scored 18 stoppage victories.
Mario Barrios Notable Wins
The 30-year-old truly announced himself on the world stage by defeating undefeated up and comer Batyr Akhmedov in 2019 for the WBA Regular 140 strap.
Following back-to-back defeats, he bounced back with a stoppage win over Jovanie Santiago in 2023 to kick off his welterweight campaign. He would then score the biggest win of his career over Ugas – the man who retired Pacquiao – later that year for the WBC Interim belt.
Mario Barrios Defeats
Barrios has lost just twice in his campaign, first by stoppage to Gervonta Davis in his final fight at super-lightweight and then, eight months later, on points to Keith Thurman in his welterweight debut.
