Mario “El Azteca” Barrios Ready to Defend WBC Welterweight Title Against Legend Manny Pacquiao on July 19

LAS VEGAS, NV — WBC Welterweight World Champion Mario “El Azteca” Barrios is locked in and ready for the biggest moment of his career as he prepares to defend his title against the legendary Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao. The pair will headline a Premier Boxing Champions Pay-Per-View on Prime Video on Saturday, July 19, live from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

Barrios (29-2-1, 18 KOs) enters the bout riding a wave of momentum, having secured the interim WBC title with a dominant performance against Yordenis Ugas in 2023—scoring two knockdowns en route to a unanimous decision. He followed that victory with another impressive showing against Fabian Maidana, and later battled Abel Ramos to a thrilling draw in a bout regarded as one of 2024’s most entertaining fights.

Despite Pacquiao’s Hall of Fame credentials, Barrios remains laser-focused on defending his belt and continuing his rise in the 147-pound division.

“It’s all smiles between us right now, but when that bell rings, we’re going in there with bad intentions,” said Barrios. “He’s trying to take my title, and I have to do whatever it takes to make sure he doesn’t.”

Barrios is not letting the magnitude of the moment overshadow his preparation. He emphasized that his mindset in camp has been the same as always—relentless.

“I haven’t really been training with the mentality that I’m facing a legend. At the end of the day, he’s another man who’s trying to fight for my title. I respect what he’s done in the sport, but come fight night, that respect won’t be there.”

He also addressed Pacquiao’s attributes, which have made him one of boxing’s all-time greats.

“Manny’s movement and hand speed are still on point. That’s what’s made him such a dangerous fighter throughout his career. But with the right game plan and execution, I believe we’ll be victorious.”

Barrios will once again be accompanied by his sister, Selina, a fighter in her own right who has been with him since they first started boxing as kids in San Antonio.

“Nobody knows me better in and out of the ring than Selina,” he said. “We’ve always been in each other’s corner since the very beginning.”

His trainer, Bob Santos, praised Barrios’ dedication and potential while recognizing the significance of sharing the ring with a boxing icon.

“This camp has been fantastic,” said Santos. “Mario’s done everything right. Manny is an icon and deserves the respect he gets, but inactivity at this stage can cut both ways. I expect Mario to be sharper, stronger, and more consistent.”

“From day one, I knew Mario was something special. He’s quiet, but he’s got the dog in him. That’s why he’s here. Come July 19, ‘El Azteca’ will come out with the win.”

The July 19 PPV card features a blockbuster lineup, including:

Sebastian Fundora vs. Tim Tszyu – a rematch of one of 2024’s bloodiest wars for the WBC Super Welterweight Title

Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz vs. Angel Fierro II – a super lightweight battle sure to deliver fireworks

Brandon Figueroa vs. Joet Gonzalez – a featherweight showdown opening the broadcast

The event will stream live on Prime Video, available for purchase with or without a Prime membership, and is also accessible via PPV.com, traditional cable, and satellite providers.

Tickets are on sale now at AXS.com.