When it comes to the ring, perhaps no one knows Manny Pacquiao better than the legendary Freddie Roach. In an interview last year, the Hall of Fame trainer recalled their humble beginnings: “I didn’t even know who he was.” From that point on, the pair forged a partnership that resembled more of a father-son bond than a standard trainer-fighter dynamic. Though they eventually went their separate ways due to reported differences, Roach’s most celebrated student is now making a comeback.

On July 19 in Las Vegas, Pacquiao, now ranked fifth by the WBC, will challenge Mario Barrios for a title, marking his first championship bout in six years. Following his loss to Yordenis Ugas, Pacquiao had seemingly retired, only to shock the world with a stunning return. Reactions to the comeback have been mixed. Undeniably many fans are excited to see the only eight-division world champion step into the ring once again. However, others have expressed concern about the risks involved. Now, with viral footage showing Pacquiao back in action at Roach’s famed Wild Card Gym, it seemed only fitting that Freddie Roach weigh in on his protege’s return, this time at age 46.

The legend lives on: Manny Pacquiao

The veteran trainer, who has worked with greats like Wladimir Klitschko, James Toney, Mike Tyson, and more, offered his take in a few candid words. “It’s a tough road for anyone at this age to do what Manny is trying to do,” said Roach.

Yet, despite the odds, his faith in Pacquiao remains steadfast: “But if anyone can do it, Manny can.” A video from Team Pacquiao showed the former world champion warming up at Roach’s corner-side gym on Vine Street. Coincidentally, Wild Card Boxing Club just marked its 30th anniversary with a big celebration.

In another interview, an enthusiastic Freddie Roach, praising how Manny Pacquiao is hitting harder and moving faster, predicted that Mario Barrios will ‘get schooled’ on July 19. “I just don’t feel he’s in Pacquiao’s class yet,” Roach said. “We’ll take him to school in this one.”

Roach stressed that Pacquiao is approaching this comeback with full focus and an old-school mindset. Yet not everyone is excited.

However, just know, every step forward has its toll

Some fans voiced concern after seeing Pacquiao’s training videos. A few were worried he might take damage, much like the criticism following Mike Tyson’s fight with Jake Paul. Pacquiao’s last official bout, against Yordenis Ugas, ended in a unanimous loss. Then last year, his exhibition versus kickboxer Rukiya Anpo left some feeling he looked ‘fleshy’ rather than fight-ready.

ESPN’s Chris Mannix weighed in: “If Pacquiao wants to come back as a Hall of Famer and fight one more time, whatever. He didn’t look good against Yordenis Ugas, and that was 5 years ago. We’ve seen him in these exhibitions looking fleshy, to say the least.”

Others question the bout’s significance. If Barrios wins, he’s unlikely to leap to a title shot against unified welterweight champion Jaron Ennis. And if Pacquiao wins, he may simply retire again.

What’s your take? Does Manny Pacquiao’s return inspire you or would you rather he stayed retired?