In 2024, the WBC has endorsed Manny Pacquiao’s return to world championship action despite being 45 years old and not having boxed since his 2021 defeat to Yordenis Ugas. Pacquiao had announced his retirement after that bout with Ugas, but WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman has left the door open for him to return to the ring.
Sulaiman expressed his confidence in Pacquiao’s ability to compete with any fighter today, citing great precedent of former champions coming back as long as they pass all medical examinations. As a former champion and a legend, Pacquiao has the possibility of fighting for the WBC championship. The WBC welterweight title is currently vacant, and Pacquiao is eyeing a potential championship bout with Mario Barrios. Negotiations for the fight are still ongoing.
Pacquiao expressed his interest in fighting Barrios, but the fight has not yet materialized. Despite being away from boxing, Pacquiao remains a competitive and formidable fighter. The prospect of seeing him back in the ring for a world title fight would be sensational, and it would certainly be an exciting moment for fans of the sport.