In 2024, the WBC welterweight title is vacant and Manny Pacquiao has expressed interest in competing for it. Despite being 45 years old and not having boxed since his 2021 defeat to Yordenis Ugas, Pacquiao’s impressive career as a multi-weight world champion has earned him the support of the WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman.
Sulaiman believes that Pacquiao’s history as a legendary fighter makes him an ideal candidate for a return to championship action. “Manny Pacquiao is timeless,” he said in a statement. “He’s a legend.” The WBC president has left the door open for Pacquiao to return to the ring, citing precedents of former champions returning to compete.
Pacquiao had announced his retirement after his loss to Ugas, but now he is considering making a comeback. The fight between Pacquiao and Mario Barrios is currently under negotiation, and if it comes off, it would be a sensational event. It’s worth noting that Pacquiao won his first world championship more than two decades ago, making him one of the most accomplished fighters in boxing history.