Boxing legend Manny Pacquiao emphasised his desire to entertain fans on Wednesday, as he prepares for his return to the ring against WBC World Welterweight Champion Mario Barrios in Las Vegas.
The 46-year-old Filipino icon, a former senator in his homeland officially retired from professional boxing following his defeat to Cuba's Yordenis Ugas in August 2021.
Now, nearly four years later, he's stepping back into the spotlight on Saturday (July 19) at the MGM Grand — a venue he has headlined an impressive 16 times throughout his career.
During Wednesday's pre-fight press conference, the 30-year-old Barrios acknowledged Pacquiao's likeable personality but made his intentions clear: "It's my time now," the champion declared, as he looks to successfully defend his title against the returning veteran.
Pacquiao's legacy in the sport remains unmatched — he holds the distinction of being the only boxer to capture major world titles across eight different weight classes, accumulating 12 major championships.
(Production: Ben Dangerfield)