The world of boxing is abuzz with the news that Manny Pacquiao, the former eight-division champion, might be returning to the ring. At 46, he plans not just for a single farewell bout but aims to reclaim his glory by challenging Mario Barrios for the welterweight title on July 19. This revelation has sparked discussions about his potential future opponents and whether he can still compete against younger talents like Ryan Garcia or Gervonta Davis.
Speculation around Pacquiao’s possible match against Davis has captivated fans. While Davis is favored due to his youth and current form, Jeff Mayweather questions this assumption, citing Davis's recent draw with Lamont Roach Jr., which raises doubts about his invincibility. The discussion extends beyond this hypothetical matchup as Pacquiao contemplates his career trajectory post-Barrios fight.
Pacquiao's Return: A Bold Move at 46
Manny Pacquiao’s decision to step back into the ring after retirement has set tongues wagging across the boxing community. With an upcoming challenge against Mario Barrios for the welterweight crown, Pacquiao proves that age is merely a number for him. His ambition goes beyond one final bout; instead, he envisions competing against top-tier boxers such as Ryan Garcia and Devin Haney. However, the question remains—how long can he sustain this level of intensity?
During a press conference in Las Vegas, Pacquiao announced that he would evaluate his next steps only after the Barrios showdown. This strategic pause allows him to assess his performance and decide whether to continue battling modern legends. Fans are particularly intrigued by the prospect of a clash between Pacquiao and Gervonta Davis, an undefeated contender known for his explosive style. Such a match could redefine boxing narratives, blending experience with youthful vigor. Yet, uncertainties linger regarding the agreed-upon weight class, given Davis’s limited experience above super lightweight.
Speculating on Pacquiao vs. Davis: Is It Feasible?
As excitement builds over a potential Pacquiao-Davis showdown, opinions diverge on its feasibility. On one hand, Davis, significantly younger and currently at the height of his career, appears to hold the advantage. Nevertheless, Jeff Mayweather casts doubt on these assumptions, pointing out Davis’s recent underwhelming performance against Lamont Roach Jr., which ended in a majority draw. This result suggests vulnerabilities that could provide Pacquiao with an unexpected edge.
Jeff Mayweather emphasizes the importance of determining the appropriate weight limit for such a contest. Given Pacquiao’s history in higher weight categories and Davis’s lack of experience beyond super lightweight, finding common ground will prove crucial. Despite favoritism leaning toward Davis, Mayweather insists that Pacquiao’s extensive experience in high-stakes matches should not be underestimated. Furthermore, Pacquiao’s mental resilience and tactical acumen remain formidable assets even as physical capabilities naturally decline with age. Thus, while speculation continues, both fighters bring unique strengths to the table, making any hypothetical encounter intriguingly unpredictable.