MANILA, PHILIPPINES — Filipino boxing icon Manny Pacquiao initially confirmed his return in the ring on January 24, 2026, in Las Vegas, United States, through a video posted on his official social media accounts in October 2025. However, the planned January comeback was scrapped due to complications on the opponent’s side, with the fight potentially set for March 2026.
The announcement carried a mix of excitement and expectation for the 47-year-old boxing legend, who is determined to prove that he can still compete and chase the world champion title.
Revisiting Pacquiao-Barrios Fight
On his comeback last July 19, 2025, Manny Pacquiao still brought the action and showed impressive stamina as he traded punches with WBC Welterweight Champion Mario Barrios at the MGM Arena. The latter threw strong counterpunches against the Filipino boxer while being tested on Pacquiao’s agility.
After the 12-rounder fight, they obtained a majority draw with scores 115–113 for Barrios and 114–114 from the other two judges. This declared no official winner, allowing Barrios to retain his WBC Welterweight title.
The match has set the stage for Pacquiao’s 2026 bout. Analysts note that he remains highly competitive and showed the ability to adapt under pressure, given his age and long career. This reinforces the Filipino boxer in facing his next rival in the upcoming fight.
The Next Rival to Step in the Ring
The 2026 fight signaled a surprising yet highly anticipated comeback. Moreover, his next fighting opponent is still being finalized, which sparks curiosity and interest in the match. While it remains unknown, fans and analysts started speculating his potential rival.
There are discussions about his former boxing opponent, Floyd Mayweather Jr., for a possible rematch. Other names are also in line, but none of them have been confirmed yet.
As interest continues to grow, attention now shifts to Pacquiao’s camp for definitive updates about his fight in early 2026.