Manny Pacquiao is in talks over a shot at the vacant WBC 147lbs title this year.
The 45-year-old has been out of action since losing to Yordenis Ugas in August 2021, where he decided to retire and put his legendary career behind him.
Focus switched to his political career in his native Philippines, but he has since got back in training and decided he wants one last hurrah in the squared circle.
It has now been revealed that Pacquiao is exploring the possibility of an immediate world title shot against WBC interim welterweight champion Mario Barrios.
Pacquiao’s advisor Sean Gibbons told Sky Sports: “Manny is looking at that option to fight Mario Barrios.
“He loves the idea of finishing his career by winning the WBC title. That was his first belt way back.
“So over the next two weeks, we are going to try to make the fight.”
The boxing icon himself later added: “I made history at 40 beating Keith Thurman.
“And I feel at 45, I have a lot left in the game as I haven’t taken a lot of punishment over the last few years. I want to make history.”
Barrios welcomed the opportunity, confirming: “I’m very excited at the possibility of this fight being made.
“Manny Pacquiao is a future Hall of Famer, a legend and someone I looked up to growing up.
“To share the ring with him would be an honor and a dream come true.”
The WBC title became vacant after Terence Crawford elected to move up to super-welterweight and challenge Israil Madrimov this summer.
Barrios defeated Pacquiao’s former rival Ugas to cement his name in pole position to challenge for the strap, but could now be thrust into an event bigger than he could have ever imagined.
Pacquiao was expected to meet British welterweight Conor Benn and the pair faced off, but the fight has since collapsed.
The eight-division world champion has even opened the door to a mega-fight with UFC superstar Conor McGregor, but that has also yet to materialise.
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News Summary:
- Manny Pacquiao in talks over stunning world title shot for comeback fight after Terence Crawford move
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