Pacquiao And Barrios Face Off – ‘I'm A Real Warrior'

Manny Pacquiao and Mario Barrios held their kick-off presser ahead of their WBC Welterweight fight on July 19.

Pacquiao makes his return to the sport at the age of 46, having not had a win since 2019 when he beat Keith Thurman. Pacman’s last foray in professional boxing came in 2021 when he came out second best to Yordenis Ugas. The Filipino has since had exhibitions while also campaigning for a senate seat in the Philippines.

His last boxing appearance was in a three-round exhibition against Rukiya Anpo last year. However, he has been ranked number five in the WBC as he seeks to shock the boxing world. Barrios is coming off a draw against Abel Ramos on the Tyson vs. Paul card in a performance that was criticized. Barrios knows a win sets up further bigger fights, with possible bouts against Jaron Ennis or Brian Norman Jr. in unification fights. Here is what the pair had to say.

Presser

"I have to punish myself again. This is not an exhibition. I’m not doing this for fun. I’m going to fight a real champion, a real warrior, and I have to be ready for war. If I didn’t believe I could win, I wouldn’t be here. Fighting is my passion. It’s in my blood," Pacquiao

"This is the biggest fight of my career, but I’m not here to be part of a farewell tour. Manny is a legend, but I’m the champion now. I’ve earned this belt, and I plan on keeping it. He’s done amazing things, but this is my time. I’m stronger, I’m sharper, and I’m going to show it," Barrios

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