Manny Pacquiao has his sights set on another record despite already being able to break his welterweight champion benchmark.
The Filipino legend returns for a 73rd professional contest on July 19 when facing Mario Barrios for the WBC 147-pound title. Pacquiao heads back to his favorite haunt at the world-famous MGM Grand in the boxing capital of the world, Las Vegas.
Pacquiao’s Record-Breaking Return at 46 As World Boxing News exclusively revealed on May 31, 2024, Pacquiao had only one thing on his mind after ending a four-year retirement. He wanted not only to fight again, but also to challenge one of the current champions for an immediate world title shot.
That eventuality, which Barrios agreed to, gives Pacquiao the chance to beat his oldest welterweight champion record by six years. ‘Pac-Man’ achieved it when defeating Keith Thurman at the age of 40 in 2019.
One achievement remains barely mentioned in media coverage — and it could be of significant historical importance.
IBHOF Induction Adds New Layer to Comeback Pacquiao’s first-ballot International Boxing Hall of Fame (IBHOF) induction, announced on December 5, 2024, before confirmation of the Barrios fight, means the 46-year-old can become the first sitting Hall of Famer to win a world title.
The scenario is remarkable and fitting that Manny Pacquiao can be the one who secures the honor.
Manny Pacquiao vs Mario Barrios Esther Lin Discussing his June 9 inclusion in the Hall of Fame and his desire to smash more benchmarks, Pacquiao is ready to give his all in a few weeks.
“This fight is history,” says Pacquiao “Being in the Hall of Fame and being inducted this year means a lot to me. It’s an honor,” said Pacquiao. “I’m thankful to all the fans and everyone who has supported me.
“My goal is to be the oldest champion and retire as a champion. This fight is very important to me because it’s history.
“I believe I’d be the first Hall of Famer to win another world title, and I’d also break my own record as the oldest welterweight world champion,” he added.
