Manny Pacquiao is poised to make a shock return to world championship motion and problem Mario Barrios for the WBC welterweight title.
The WBC will sanction the bout however a remaining determination rests with Pacquiao. The 46-year-old, who retired from boxing in 2021 after 72 skilled contests, is a senator within the Philippines and is at the moment concerned in elections.
Pacquiao advisor, Sean Gibbons of MP Promotions advised Sky Sports activities: “Manny Pacquiao is running for Senator here in the Philippines. The election is May 12. He will make some decisions after that on what he’s doing.”
Amir Khan, who had been linked to combat with Pacquiao throughout his personal profession, has warned the previous multi-weight world champion towards returning for the Barrios combat.
“It’s a fantastic fight for Mario, he needs that big fight. He’ll be paid well and fighting a legend like Manny Pacquiao, who would say no to that?” Khan advised Sky Sports activities.
“Mario deserves this fight because every fighter wants that big payday. It will be fantastic for him.”
He famous of Barrios: “When me and Virgil [Hunter] were training together, I used to spar with him quite a lot. He’s a very good boxer. I don’t know how much Manny’s got left in him. If they were in their prime, in their peak, then I’d say all day Manny Pacquiao. But this could be a tricky fight for Pacquiao.”
Khan added: “At the end of the day, he’s been out of the ring for a long time and has he still got the fire in his belly? Barrios, I’m sure he’s going to come in wanting to win this fight because it can change his life.”
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Again in 2015 Floyd Mayweather confirmed off his slick abilities as he outpointed Pacquiao to win their mega-fight in Las Vegas
For Pacquiao, at his age, towards a world champion who’s solely 29, it is a dangerous choice.
“A long lay-off and at the same time you’re always that one punch away from getting hurt. I’m sure he’s got a great career ahead of him in politics,” Khan mentioned.
“He would not want to come back again however typically you do miss the game. Manny may miss not having that recognition, that love he used to get being a fighter. However I am positive individuals will flip as much as watch him.
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A glance again at when Amir Khan virtually agreed a combat to face former gym-mate Pacquiao
“I think it will be a fantastic fight but if I was to advise Manny I wouldn’t say to come back. You should come back to someone that’s already retired, someone like myself for example, because then it’s an even fight.
“However once you take a look at a younger fighter who’s nonetheless a fighter, who’s nonetheless boxing, who’s energetic, typically it is harmful.”
