Filipino boxing legend Manny Pacquiao is set to make his ring return in an exhibition match against Japanese kickboxer Rukiya Anpo on Sunday, July 28, at the Saitama Super Arena in Japan.
The 45-year-old eight-division world champion will be taking on his tallest opponent yet in the 6-foot Anpo, a former K-1 super lightweight champion. The exhibition bout will consist of three rounds of three minutes each with no judges’ decision.
Pacquiao, who last fought professionally in 2021, has been preparing for the match for two months in General Santos City. He arrived in Japan late Tuesday accompanied by his family.
In his workout at the Kyokuto Gym in Tokyo, Pacquiao showcased the speed and power that made him a boxing icon. He will be a slight height disadvantage against Anpo, who is an inch taller than Antonio Margarito, whom Pacquiao defeated in 2010.
Anpo, a 28-year-old former K-1 welterweight Gran Prix runner-up, stepped in as a replacement for RIZIN featherweight champion Chihiro Suzuki, who pulled out due to an injury. The Japanese kickboxer expressed his intention to win against the Filipino legend.
“I think Pacquiao is insanely strong. But I’m going to take on the challenge with the intention of winning,” Anpo said during a press conference.
Pacquiao last fought in an exhibition match against South Korean martial artist DK Yoo in December 2022. He is reportedly eyeing a professional comeback in October or November to challenge reigning WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios.