Manny Pacquiao Eyes History in Return to the Ring Against Mario Barrios on July 19

International Boxing Hall of Famer Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao held a media workout Wednesday in Los Angeles, alongside his legendary trainer Freddie Roach, as he prepares to challenge WBC Welterweight World Champion Mario “El Azteca” Barrios. The bout headlines a blockbuster PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video, set for Saturday, July 19 at the iconic MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

Though already cemented as one of boxing’s all-time greats, Pacquiao is aiming to make even more history. After his recent induction into the Hall of Fame, the 45-year-old icon has the chance to become the oldest welterweight world champion ever—surpassing the very record he set at age 40 when he defeated Keith Thurman in 2019.

This action-packed card also features WBC Super Welterweight Champion Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora taking on Tim Tszyu in a high-stakes rematch of their blood-soaked 2024 clash. Also on the bill: hard-hitting Mexican rivals Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz and Angel Fierro meet again in a 12-round super lightweight battle, and former two-division champ Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa faces top contender Joet Gonzalez in a 10-round featherweight bout to open the pay-per-view at 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT.

Fans can catch the event on Prime Video—available for purchase whether or not you’re a Prime member—as well as through cable, satellite, and PPV.com. Tickets for the live event are available now at AXS.com.

Pacquiao Speaks from Wild Card Gym

During his workout at Wild Card Boxing Club, Pacquiao shared his thoughts on his return:

“Boxing has always been my passion, and I’ve missed it,” said Pacquiao. “These past four years have been good for my body. I feel rejuvenated. The fire is back—you’ll see it in how I train.”

Reflecting on his Hall of Fame induction, he added:

“It’s a true honor. I’m grateful to my fans and supporters. Now, my goal is to become the oldest champion in welterweight history and retire on top.”

“I’ve adjusted my training to focus more on recovery,” Pacquiao noted. “I’m taking this one fight at a time. I’m not thinking beyond Barrios—I’m fully locked in.”

Pacquiao, who retired in 2021 following a loss to Yordenis Ugas, admitted the decision didn’t sit well with him:

“I knew in my heart I wasn’t done. I’ve had time to rest and reset. Now I’m back.”

“I still feel fast, I still feel strong,” he added. “My team actually has to slow me down during training to make sure I rest enough. But I still love to push myself.”

Looking ahead, the legend hinted at more fights on the horizon:

“I think I’ve got two or three fights left in me. Maybe a couple more years. But right now, my full focus is July 19.”

“I had a lot of distractions before the Ugas fight,” Pacquiao said. “Now, I’m 100% focused—no distractions, just training. I’m ready.”