World Boxing Information has realized that Manny Pacquiao will return in 2024 for one last skilled bout and, presumably, a world title shot.
The Filipino boxing legend hasn’t fought in a sanctioned bout since dropping his WBA welterweight title to Yordenis Ugas in 2021. Throughout his time away, Pacquiao participated in a few exhibitions, however his continued need to log out on one other large occasion has but to come back to fruition.
Manny Pacquiao Promotions Chairman Sean Gibbons has up to date WBN on the eight-weight champion’s intentions. The “Pac-Man” nonetheless has that starvation to compete and is trying into a possible world title shot.
“Manny Pacquiao continues to be chasing historical past,” Gibbons advised World Boxing Information completely. “He’s yet another large struggle in 2024!
“Manny made historical past at 40 years previous when he beat Keith Thurman to win the WBA 147-pound world title. He turned the oldest fighter ever to do it. He would love a shot on the welterweight title earlier than calling it a profession.”
Present champions at welterweight embody Terence Crawford, Jaron Ennis, Mario Barrios [interim], and Eimantas Stanionis. Crawford is more likely to drop his WBO and WBA variations quickly after being made WBC Champion in Recess lately. Stanionis would then be elevated to full WBA champion from his present place as secondary, with Ennis holding the IBF championship and Barrios awaiting a WBC improve.
Ennis makes his Philadelphia return this summer season in protection towards Cody Crowley however stays an possibility for Pacquiao for later within the 12 months. Crawford is out of fee as he fights Isral Madrimov for the tremendous welterweight crown on August 3.
That leaves Stanionis or Barrios as the plain selection for a major occasion of their careers. Stanionis and Barrios lately fought on the Could 4 undercard of Canelo vs Munguia, retaining their belts towards Gabriel Maestre and Fabian Maidana. Pacquiao will know all about Stanionis from his time on the Wild Card Fitness center, however might choose Barrios for the coveted inexperienced and gold.
Pairing both of the 2 towards Pacquiao for a blockbuster battle within the subsequent few months can be a no brainer. That’s if Pacquiao desires to land one other title shot earlier than he turns 46 in December. Being out of motion for 3 years isn’t preferrred preparation, however at the very least that method, Pacquiao will get to exit on his personal phrases.
The Ugas loss got here after Errol Spence Jr pulled out injured. That wasn’t the way it was supposed to finish.
Learn all articles and unique interviews by Phil Jay. Study extra concerning the writer, skilled boxing author, and World Boxing Information Editor since 2010. Observe on Twitter @PhilJWBN.
