Pacquiao Cleared to Fight Barrios for WBC Title

Manny Pacquiao, the 46-year-old boxing icon and eight-division world champion, is set to return from nearly four years of retirement to challenge Mario Barrios for the WBC welterweight title on July 19 in Las Vegas. Pacquiao last fought professionally in August 2021, losing to Yordenis Ugas, and has since pursued a political career, including a recent Philippine Senate campaign. The Nevada State Athletic Commission has cleared Pacquiao to fight, citing WBC rules that allow former champions to challenge for titles upon their return. Barrios, 29, secured the WBC belt in 2023 and recently drew with Abel Ramos. The announcement has sparked both excitement among fans and debate about the fairness of Pacquiao receiving a title shot without climbing the rankings. Pacquiao is also set for induction into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in June.