Manny Pacquiao is just days away from making his return to the ring.
The 46-year-old from the Philippines will challenge reigning WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios on Saturday July 19 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Pacquiao has not fought as a professional since June of 2021 when he was outpointed by former WBA welterweight champion Yordenis Ugas, although he did make brief returns to the ring in exhibition contests in 2022 and 2024.
Legendary trainer-turned-analyst Teddy Atlas has spoken out for the final time ahead of the shock comeback, sharing his thoughts on the 46-year-old’s return, which has divided the boxing community in recent weeks.
Speaking on his YouTube channel THE FIGHT, Atlas gave plaudits to the Filipino icon but said that if he had to make a smart choice it would be with the younger man.
“At the end of the day, you have to favour Barrios. If I was a betting man, I’m have to bet Barrios. I’m not betting, because I wouldn’t bet against Manny … I think Barrios is a terrific fighter … but I’m not afraid to say my heart would be with Manny.
“Barrios is a special guy, but Manny Pacquiao is one of a kind. I wouldn’t be shocked to see him do something that is very unlikely at 46 years of age. But I would not bet that he’s gonna do it. I just hope that the people around him are responsible enough, that they’ve seen something special to continue to go forward with this fight.”
Should he be victorious over ‘El Azteca’ this weekend, Pacquiao will write his name into boxing history once again by becoming the oldest world welterweight champion of all time, a record that he actually set himself back in 2019 when he dethroned WBA welterweight champion Keith Thurman at 40-years-old.
