There are talks that boxing legend Manny Pacquiao may be making a comeback for a shot at the WBC welterweight title later this year. Current champion Mario Barrios could potentially face Pac Man in what would be a highly anticipated match-up.
WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman has expressed his approval for Pacquiao challenging Barrios for the title. Sulaiman believes that Pacquiao, even at the age of 45, has the skills and ability to be competitive with any fighter in today’s boxing landscape.
Sulaiman has described Pacquiao as timeless and a legend in the sport of boxing. He is enthusiastic about the idea of Pacquiao returning to the WBC arena after more than two decades since his first world championship win.
Despite the enthusiasm from Sulaiman and Pacquiao fans, there are doubts about whether Pacquiao can truly compete with the top fighters in the welterweight division. His last fight against Yordenis Ugas showed signs of decline in Pacquiao’s performance, raising questions about his ability to keep up with younger opponents.
Pacquiao’s age, at 45, is a significant factor in the discussions surrounding his potential comeback. While his experience and legacy in the sport are undeniable, the physical toll of aging may hinder his ability to perform at the same level as he did in his prime.
Considering Pacquiao’s recent performance against Ugas and his age, it is important to assess whether he is truly capable of defeating a younger and potentially stronger opponent like Barrios. Jumping the queue for a title shot raises questions of fairness in the sport.
While the prospect of a Manny Pacquiao comeback and a shot at the WBC welterweight title is exciting for fans and the boxing world, there are valid concerns about his ability to compete at the highest level. The decision to pursue this opportunity will require careful consideration from Pacquiao, his team, and the boxing community as a whole.