Manny “PacMan” Pacquiao has now landed in Las Vegas, Nevada and will continue training for his upcoming fight at the World Boxing Council (WBC) for the Welterweight belt.
As Nevada is known as a hot city/area and can reach its temperature up to 40 degrees Celsius, Pacquiao still continued his first day training in the city.
PacMan, who announced his return to the ring after his last professional fight last August 2021 against Yordenis Ugas, which was a unanimous decision loss by the Filipino, was awarded a title shot.
Based on WBC rules, a former champion may request a title shot even after coming out of retirement, as long as he shall pass all medical examinations.
“The physician, who serves as our medical adviser, checked all his medical results thoroughly and determined he was fit to compete without restrictions,” according to Nevada Athletic Commission Executive Director Jeff Mullen.
WBC also finds Manny a worthy opponent for Barrios.
“The WBC determined that Mr. Pacquiao was a worthy contender and sanctioned the fight,” Mullen added.
His opponent will be against a 30-year old Mario Barrios, who has the upper advantage of age, despite his experiences and battle IQ.
Mario Barrios, who is the current WBC Welterweight champ, has a remarkable professional boxing career record — with 29 wins, two losses, and one draw.
Manny Pacquiao has 62 wins, eight losses, and two draws, including he conquered eight divisions and was their world champ.
The odds are not in Pacquiao’s favor for now — considering that the two boxers who are about to clash have a 16-year age gap, and Manny is way out of his prime. Barrios also has the height advantage wherein he stands at 6’0, while the Filipino boxer is at 5’5.
If he is able to achieve and win against Barrios, he will be the second oldest boxer (46) to ever hold the belt, next to Bernard Hopkins at the age of 49 in 2013.
He will be facing two opponents: Mario Barrios and Father Time. We are in for a treat as the People’s Champ will show us his speedy reflexes and his southpaw stance once again.
The WBC Welterweight title will be held on Sunday, July 20 (Manila Time) at Las Vegas, Nevada. —Kyle Basa, Contributor