Manny Pacquiao could be set for a sensational return to boxing in 2025.
The 46-year-old from the Philippines has not fought since he was defeated by former WBA world welterweight champion Yordenis Ugas at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas 4-years ago.
Throughout his decorated 72 fight professional career, Pacquiao become the first and only fighter in boxing history to win world titles across eight weight divisions. He boasts victories over a number of generational greats, including Miguel Cotto, Juan Manuel Marquez and Marco Antonio Barrera.
Another fighter who he got the better of during his tenure was Oscar De La Hoya, who he fought in a non-title showdown back in December 2008. ‘The Golden Boy’ was forced to retire on his stool at the end of the eighth round after a one sided contest.
With reports emerging that ‘Pac-Man’ is in the running to face WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios, De La Hoya spoke to Seconds Out and gave an honest assessment of his former opponents potential return to the sport, as he urges ‘Pac-Man’ to ‘be careful up there’.
“I wish him all the best. Obviously the truth is the truth, he’s obviously not the same Pacquiao that fought me, that fought the greats. I wish him the best, be careful up there, he’s not young like he used to be but I’m sure he still has that power so anything can happen but yeah, just be careful.”
Barrios became the WBC champion at 147lbs last May after Terence Crawford vacated the crown to move up to light-middleweight. Another fighter who is reportedly in contention to face Barrios is former unified welterweight champion Errol Spence Jr, who has not fought since he was beaten by Terence Crawford in their undisputed championship showdown two years ago.
