A former rival of Manny Pacquiao has finally spoken out after the Filipino great made a sensational return to the sport earlier this year.
The 46-year-old put an end to four years of inactivity when he fought to a majority decision draw against reigning WBC world welterweight champion Mario Barrios at the MGM Grand Garden Arena on July 19.
Pacquiao put on an impressive display against the younger champion, with many fans and analysts claiming that they believed he had done more than enough to be declared the winner, but in the end the three judges scored the bout 114-114, 114-114 and 115-113 Barrios.
Prior to his showdown with Barrios, Pacquiao’s last ring appearance came against former WBA welterweight champion Yordenis Ugas, who defeated ‘PacMan’ via unanimous decision at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas back in August of 2021.
Speaking on social media recently, Ugas spoke fondly of his former foe as he claims the 46-year-old is an ‘incredible’ fighter.
“I thought the Pacquiao who fought me was done. But to see him come back four years later, take on someone 16 years younger, and still deliver a close fight? Pac-Man is incredible.”
As he approaches his 47th birthday, Pacquiao is said to be in talks to make his 74th ring appearance during the first quarter of 2026, although an official announcement is yet to be made.
Multiple reports have suggested in the last few weeks that ‘PacMan’ could be in line for a clash with Rolando ‘Rolly’ Romero, who currently holds the WBA world welterweight title.
