Eight-division champion Manny Pacquiao returns to action on July 19, 2025, at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, against WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios. The title fight will see ‘Pac-Man’ appear in a professional boxing match nearly four years after his retirement following a loss to Yordenis Ugas in August 2021. But the question is—does he stand a chance to win?

You see, the 46-year-old boxing legend hasn’t won a fight in the last six years since edging Keith Thurman in July 2019. Not to mention, he didn’t exactly look in form during his exhibition fight against Rukia Anpo last year. Naturally, there are concerns about his well-being in the comeback fight. Amid all this, Pacquiao’s former rival has raised a tough question.

Former world champion Juan Manuel Marquez, who fought Pacquiao a total of four times between 2004 and 2012, appeared in an interview with Pro Box TV recently. While there, he presented an optimistic view of Pacquiao’s return, stating, “Power is the last thing a fighter loses. Let’s give the benefit of the doubt to a historic fighter.”

He believed ‘Pac-Man’ could still hit hard, stating, “What matters is the integrity of the fighter. Pacquiao still hits hard.” Yet he raised a tough question, “Let’s see how Barrios handles that.” It’s worth noting that Barrios has had a tough 2024, having faced a tough challenge against Fabian Andres Maidana and suffered a split draw against Abel Ramos. 

Notably, Marquez fought Pacquiao first time in the featherweight division on May 8, 2004, which saw the Filipino legend drop Marquez three times in the first round. Despite that, Marquez battled his way back into the fight, dragging it to the distance to end it in a split decision draw. They met for the second time in the super featherweight division on March 15, 2008, and instantly produced a highly competitive fight. 

Pacquiao won the bout via a close split decision, which was contentious. The pair met again on November 12, 2011, for a catchweight fight. This time, ‘Pac-Man’ won the fight via majority decision, but it was questioned by many. Their epic rivalry finally came to an end on December 8, 2012, when Marquez knocked out Pacquiao in the sixth round with a devastating counter right hand. 

This remains one of the scariest moments in boxing history when Pacquiao lay flat on the canvas for a minute. Regardless, Marquez isn’t alone in his prediction for the fight. 

Freddie Roach believes Manny Pacquiao can dominate Mario Barrios

Freddie Roach is brimming with confidence ahead of Manny Pacquiao’s return to the ring against WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios on July 19, 2025. Despite Pacquiao being 46 and having not fought since 2021, Roach believes this is the perfect matchup for his longtime pupil. 

Speaking to Boxing Scene on May 26, Roach said, “And then they asked me, ‘Who do you pick [for Pacquiao to fight in his return]?’ I said, ‘We’re going for one fight. We’re going for the best fight.’” He added, “It’s somebody that he can dominate. And I think that he can do it.” Roach’s faith stems from their two-decade partnership and his belief that Barrios, while talented, is beatable—especially if Pacquiao can land early power shots. 

That said, it appears despite the 16-year age gap and Pacquiao’s inactivity, experts believe the 46-year-old still has what it takes to beat Mario Barrios. However, only time will tell whether these predictions hold true. Do you agree with them?