ON JULY 19, 2025, the world will witness more than just a boxing match. This is a moment that will go down in history. At 46 years old, Manny Pacquiao – the national hero of the Philippines – will step into the ring once again. His goal? To win back the WBC welterweight world title. Not for money. Not for fame. But for legacy.
In Las Vegas, under the lights of the MGM Grand, Pacquiao will face current world champion Mario Barrios – a 29-year-old rising star. And this fight may become one of the most important events in boxing in recent decades.
Manny Pacquiao is returning after nearly four years away from professional boxing. His last fight was in August 2021 against Yordenis Ugas. Many thought that was the final chapter. But Pacquiao is not done yet.
During his incredible career, he became the only boxer in history to win world titles in eight different weight classes, and set the record as the oldest welterweight world champion by winning the title at age 40.
After retiring in 2021, Pacquiao turned his full attention to public service. He was elected a senator in the Philippines and ran for president in 2022. But even away from the ring, he continued to fight – for justice, for youth, for the future of his country.
From the streets of General Santos to the world stage
Before his name became a symbol of pride for every Filipino, Emmanuel “Manny” Pacquiao was a boy selling bread on the streets. Boxing wasn’t just a sport – it was his way to survive. His journey from poverty to becoming a global champion has inspired millions.
He didn’t just win – he conquered. With world titles in eight weight divisions, Pacquiao wrote his name in the boxing history books forever. Every one of his fights was a story – told through punches, heart, and faith.
More than a boxer
Every time Manny steps into the ring, he carries more than gloves – he carries the hopes of a nation. His victories have stopped traffic, filled every bar in the country, and brought families together in front of the screen.
After the fight with Ugas in 2021, many believed the era was over. But instead of disappearing, Pacquiao stepped into a new kind of arena – politics and sports development. One of his biggest projects was building up MPBL (Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League) – a basketball league he personally founded to support local talent and young athletes across the country.
Today, 1xBet, the official sponsor of MPBL, helps the league grow even further by supporting tournaments, events, and bringing in a wider audience. In this way, Pacquiao continues to influence Philippine sports even outside the boxing ring.
The opponent: a new generation ready to challenge a legend
Mario Barrios is not just another young fighter. He’s strong, focused, and explosive – a Mexican-American boxer in his prime. At just 29 years old, he already has 31 professional fights, with 29 wins (18 by knockout) and only 2 losses.
In May 2024, Barrios became the full WBC welterweight champion after Terence Crawford gave up the title. He’s a fighter of the new generation, hungry to prove himself as the division’s new king. His aggressive style, body attacks, and confidence make him a dangerous challenge – even for the most experienced veterans.
But on July 19, he won’t be facing just another opponent. He’ll be standing across from a living legend. From a man who represents decades of greatness. He’ll be facing the spirit of the Philippines.
One more fight. One more record?
At 46 years old, Manny Pacquiao now has the chance to break his own record – to become the oldest welterweight world champion once again. WBC ranked him back at No. 5, giving him the opportunity to fight for the title – and to show that greatness has no age limit.
This fight is about more than belts or rankings. It’s about proving that strength comes not just from muscles, but from the heart. That belief, discipline, and love for your people can overcome anything – even time. (PR)
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