Boxing’s only eight-division champion, Manny Pacquiao, hasn’t seen any action since his loss to Yordenis Ugas back in 2021, at least, not in a professional setting. However, since mid-2024, there has been chatter about a fight against WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios. Initially, the 46-year-old, considered to be retired, was pitted against Barrios for October or November 2024 in Las Vegas.
The negotiations had gained some traction with WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman backing a potential title fight. At the time, Pacquiao’s advisor, Sean Gibbons, was eyeing a December 2024 deadline due to Pacquiao’s Philippine Senate campaign. Meanwhile, ‘Pac-Man’ participated in an exhibition fight against Rukiya Anpo in July 2024.
This fight left much to be desired from one of boxing’s biggest names because of his lackluster performance, raising doubts about his readiness for a fight against Barrios. It was during this time that ‘El Azteca’ was elevated to the full WBC welterweight champion. By the time October rolled around, Pacquiao’s political commitments threatened the bout.
In November, Barrios took on Abel Ramos in his first title defense, as he nearly lost the belt because of a split decision draw. By December, both Pacquiao and Barrios seemed interested in the fight, but nothing substantial came out of it until now. Earlier today, Brunch Boxing reported that talks have resumed for the long-anticipated fight.
Scoop Alert
The long-rumored bout between Mario Barrios and Manny Pacquiao is in talks for the summer, as early as July. Nothing can or will be announced until the conclusion of Pacquiao’s senate campaign in the Philippines. Election is May 12. #BrunchBoxing pic.twitter.com/c1XsEWL7u3
— Brunch Boxing (@BrunchBoxing) April 21, 2025
“The long-rumored bout between Mario Barrios and Manny Pacquiao is in talks for the summer, as early as July,” Brunch Boxing wrote on X. “Nothing can or will be announced until the conclusion of Pacquiao’s senate campaign in the Philippines. Election is May 12.” While it’s unclear whether the fight would happen or not, one thing is.
Manny Pacquiao will end up achieving this before fighting Mario Barrios
Manny Pacquiao will be enshrined on June 8 as the headline inductee in the 2025 class of the International Boxing Hall of Fame, cementing his place among the sport’s immortals. A global icon and national hero in the Philippines, Pacquiao made history as the only boxer to win world titles in eight weight classes, rising from 106 pounds to 154 while never losing his trademark speed and power.
MANILA, PHILIPPINES – MAY 19: < Manny Pacquiao poses for a portrait during a training session at the Elorde boxing Gym on May 19, 2017 in Manila, Philippines. (Photo by Chris Hyde/Getty Images)
With a career spanning from 1995 to 2021, his record of 62 wins, 8 losses, and 2 draws includes legendary victories over Oscar De La Hoya, Miguel Cotto, and Juan Manuel Marquez. “This is a wonderful Christmas gift,” Pacquiao said last December, reflecting on the honor. His longtime trainer, Freddie Roach, already a Hall of Famer, called the moment “incredibly proud.” Pacquiao joins Filipino greats Flash Elorde, Pancho Villa, and Lope Sarreal in boxing’s highest circle of recognition.
That said, it’s unclear when Manny Pacquiao and Mario Barrios will end up having their much-talked-about fight. However, the tweet from Brunch Boxing suggests talks are heading in the right direction. Would you like to see this fight?
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