Overview

• Scheduled for July 19 at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, the bout marks Pacquiao’s first pro fight since his unanimous decision loss to Yordenis Ugas in August 2021.
• Pacquiao has commenced a measured training camp under longtime coach Freddie Roach, who believes the legend can dominate Barrios.
• Sugar Ray Leonard has publicly endorsed Pacquiao’s return, citing the Filipino icon’s mental resilience and experience from past comebacks.
• Analyst Paul Malignaggi and promoter Bob Arum have voiced doubts about Pacquiao’s ability to maintain peak condition and safety at age 46 after a four-year layoff.
• Juan Manuel Marquez and Oscar De La Hoya have countered critics by praising Pacquiao’s sustained punching power and forecasting a competitive performance.