It’s been nearly one month since Manny Pacquiao made his sensational boxing comeback.
The Filipino boxing legend returned to the sport in July at the age of 46, competing in his first professional bout since his temporary retirement following a loss in a WBA welterweight title fight with Yordenis Ugas in August 2021.
Pacquiao’s return saw him challenge Mario Barrios for his WBC welterweight title at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, looking to claim his first victory since defeating Keith Thurman back in July 2019, where he became the oldest welterweight champion of all time.
He was looking to break that record again against Barrios, but many fans had concerns that Pacquiao may be unable to perform at a high level. He proved a lot of those doubters wrong though by competing throughout the entire fight as it went the full 12-round distance.
Despite the impressive performance, he was unable to get his hand raised, after the judges scored the bout 115-113 Barrios and 114-114 twice, making it a majority decision draw.
Following the draw, Pacquiao has now received his new world ranking with the WBC, as the sanctioning body have placed him at number one in their rankings.
It could now open the door for an immediate rematch with Barrios, although the Filipino is believed to be looking at possible other options, including the likes of WBA welterweight champion Rolly Romero and Ryan Garcia.
While no opponent has been decided yet, Pacquiao has since revealed that December is the planned date for his return.
