Boxing legend Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao and WBC Welterweight World Champion Mario “El Azteca” Barrios continued their press tour Tuesday in Los Angeles, building anticipation for their upcoming main event showdown on Saturday, July 19. The bout headlines a loaded PBC Pay-Per-View on Prime Video, live from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.
This marked the second face-off between Pacquiao and Barrios in just four days, following their initial media event Saturday in Las Vegas. Also in attendance were fighters from the July 19 undercard, including WBC Super Welterweight Champion Sebastian Fundora, former champ Tim Tszyu, Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz, Angel Fierro, Brandon Figueroa, and Joet Gonzalez.
Pacquiao: “I’m Back”
Returning to the ring after nearly three years, Pacquiao expressed his excitement and sense of purpose:
“The fire, determination, and eagerness to work hard is still there. I really missed boxing. I’m back.”
“Barrios is the kind of fighter who gives people good fights. Me and him together in the ring will satisfy the fans.”
Pacquiao, 45, is chasing one more world title in what may be the final chapter of his storied career:
“It would mean a lot for me to become world champion again. That’s my passion. I want to inspire the next generation.”
Barrios: “I’m the Champion for a Reason”
Barrios, who won the WBC title in 2023 and successfully defended it earlier this year, is embracing the spotlight:
“This is my biggest fight so far. I’m defending my title against a legend, and I couldn’t be more honored.”
“Come July 19, I’ll be facing a legend across from me. But inside the ring, he’s just another man trying to take what’s mine.”
“All of my big fights have prepared me for this moment. I’m going to show the world why I’m the champion.”
Fundora vs. Tszyu II: Unfinished Business
In a rematch of one of 2024’s most grueling fights, Sebastian Fundora and Tim Tszyu will meet again in the co-main event.
Fundora, who claimed a narrow victory in their first bout, believes he’ll win more convincingly this time:
“I don’t think this fight goes the distance. I’m training hard and we’re going to make adjustments. I’m ready to show I’m the best at 154.”
Tszyu, who suffered a deep cut early in their first fight, is motivated by redemption:
“This is round 13. I know what needs to be done this time. It’s about the belt, but also the story. I’m coming to reclaim what’s mine.”
Cruz vs. Fierro II: Grudge Match Rematch
After a tense first encounter in February, Isaac Cruz and Angel Fierro are set for a rematch that promises fireworks.
Cruz, who won a close decision, remains confident:
“I like to do my talking inside the ring. Get ready—I’m leaving that ring with another victory.”
Fierro is eager to prove the first result was no fluke:
“I figured him out in the first fight. He doesn’t have the chin people say he does. I’m going to brawl my way to a win.”
Figueroa vs. Gonzalez: High-Powered Opener
Former two-division world champion Brandon Figueroa opens the pay-per-view against tough veteran Joet Gonzalez in a featherweight slugfest.
Figueroa, now training under Manny Robles, sees this as a statement fight:
“I feel incredible. I’m coming with everything. I owe it to the fans after my last performance.”
Gonzalez is equally determined to make the most of this opportunity:
“This is a blessing. I’ve always dreamed of being on a stage like this. I’m training hard and coming to win.”
Ticket Information
Pre-sale is available now at AXS.com using code PBC and runs through Tuesday at 10 p.m. PT.
Public on-sale begins Wednesday, June 4 at 10 a.m. PT, also through AXS.