Pacquiao and Barrios Face Off Ahead of Historic Welterweight Clash on July 19

Boxing legend Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao and reigning WBC Welterweight World Champion Mario “El Azteca” Barrios came face-to-face Wednesday afternoon at the final press conference before their high-stakes showdown this Saturday, July 19. The bout headlines a stacked PBC Pay-Per-View event live from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas and will stream on Prime Video.

Pacquiao, who was recently inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame, looks to make history once again by capturing another world title at age 45. Barrios, meanwhile, sees this fight as his opportunity to defeat a global icon and further cement his place as a top-tier champion in boxing’s deepest division.

The pay-per-view broadcast will be available for purchase on Prime Video, with no Prime membership required. It will also be offered through traditional cable and satellite providers, as well as via PPV.com. Tickets for the live event are on sale now through AXS.com.

Manny Pacquiao

Pacquiao expressed deep appreciation for his fans and the opportunity to return to the ring.

“I’m here again for another big fight. I’m so thankful to the fans for all their support. Without them, boxing is dead,” said Pacquiao. “I’ve been the underdog many times in my career. I’m always bringing surprises.”

Now a challenger once more, Pacquiao emphasized his readiness and love for the sport.

“It’s been a while since I last fought, but I’ve stayed active. I want to prove to everyone that I’m still in great condition,” he said. “I’ve been enjoying this training camp like I did when I was 26 years old. The discipline is still there. The passion is still there.”

He continued, “I love going toe-to-toe. I never take training lightly, and the fans can expect action. I respect Barrios—he’s a hard worker and a true champion—but this is for the fans. I’m back.”

Mario Barrios

For Barrios, Saturday marks not just a title defense, but a defining moment in his career.

“It’s been a long camp and we’re ready. This is historic,” said Barrios. “Hats off to Pacquiao for daring to be great. But it’s my time now.”

Barrios, a proud representative of San Antonio and his Mexican and indigenous roots, vowed to approach the fight with power and intent.

“I’m not going in there looking for a knockout, but I’m bringing bad intentions. I won’t hesitate to pull the trigger,” he said. “I know the style Manny brings. I’ve been preparing for 12 rounds of nonstop action.”

Barrios also reflected on Pacquiao’s legacy and the significance of this bout.

“He’s had many victories over Mexican fighters. I’m going to be on the other side of that history. I was a big Juan Manuel Marquez fan—when he knocked Manny out, that was one of my favorite moments.”

Despite the mutual respect, Barrios made his intentions clear.

“At the end of the day, he’s just another man in there. I’m ready for war. I’m walking in with confidence, and I’m ready to show the world why I’m the champion.”

Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions

“We’re thrilled to be back at the MGM Grand Garden Arena for another historic night,” said Brown. “This is Manny’s sixteenth time fighting in this arena—an incredible milestone.”

He added, “This event is stacked from top to bottom. With a Hall of Fame legend challenging a proud world champion, July 19 is shaping up to be a truly memorable night for boxing.”