Can Pacquiao Shock the World Again? Donaire Believes So as July 19 Showdown vs. Barrios Nears

by Butch Belga

Nonito Donaire (left) and Manny Pacquiao.

The Pac-Man is back—and he's not done yet.

Manny Pacquiao, boxing’s ageless icon and the only eight-division world champion in history, is making his much-anticipated return to professional action on July 19, taking on reigning WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios in what could be the start of one final, explosive chapter in his legendary career.

It’s been nearly three years since Pacquiao last stepped into a pro ring, following a disappointing loss to Yordenis Ugas in 2021. His last win? A classic split decision victory over Keith Thurman in 2019 that proved he still had lightning in his gloves at 40. Since then, Pacquiao has stayed busy with exhibitions and kept himself in world-class shape—enough to remain ranked No. 5 by the WBC at 147 pounds.

But Barrios is no easy welcome-back opponent. At 6’0” with a 71-inch reach, he towers over the 5’5½” Pacquiao, and at 29 years old, he’s 15 years younger. Youth, size, and momentum are all on his side.

Still, Nonito Donaire, fellow Filipino boxing legend and former four-division champ, believes Pacquiao can still flip the script.

“If he feints, uses that signature in-and-out movement, and stays smart, Manny can control this fight,” Donaire told reporters. “If he’s 100% locked in, I think he takes it. But if not, Barrios is young, hungry, and he’ll come for the legend. Still, I believe Manny’s speed and fight IQ can carry him.”

Pacquiao himself isn’t shying away from the challenge—or the future. He’s openly said he wants two or three more fights, and he’s training like a man with something left to prove.

“I feel fast, strong—like I’m still in my prime,” Pacquiao said in camp. “My team’s actually trying to slow me down. But this time, there are no distractions. I’m 100 percent focused.”

So what’s next after Barrios? Rumors swirl about possible matchups with names like Gervonta “Tank” Davis, though the weight difference (Pacquiao at 147, Tank at 135) makes it unlikely. Another intriguing option is unbeaten contender Brian Norman Jr. (28-0, 22 KOs), who’s fresh off a stunning KO of Jin Sasaki. But that’s a dangerous road—and one Pacquiao isn’t rushing into.

For now, all eyes are on July 19 in Las Vegas, where the boxing world will find out if the fire still burns bright in the Filipino ring icon.

Can Pacquiao defy the odds once more? Or will Barrios write his own chapter by toppling a titan?

One thing’s for sure—when Manny Pacquiao fights, the world watches.