Manny Pacquiao is making his comeback after a four-year break, set to face Mario Barrios for the WBC welterweight title on Saturday at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, with the fight available on Amazon Prime Video PPV and PPV.com at 8 PM ET. At 46 years old, Pacquiao aims to become the oldest boxer to win the welterweight title, surpassing his previous record at age 40 when he narrowly defeated Keith Thurman in 2019.
In his last match in 2021, Pacquiao was outmatched and slower against Jordenis Ugas, losing by unanimous decision with Ugas landing more total punches, jabs, and power shots.
The co-main event features Sebastian Fundora defending his WBC and WBO junior middleweight titles in a rematch against Tim Tszyu. Fundora, who lost a close split decision to Tszyu in March 2024, faces a challenging stylistic matchup due to his height advantage and Tszyu’s unpredictable power punches.
Earlier on Saturday, heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk will try to reclaim his undisputed status in a rematch against IBF titleholder Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in London. Usyk previously defeated Dubois by knockout in August 2023, despite a controversial low blow ruling that gave Usyk crucial recovery time.
ESPN’s betting expert Ian Parker offers analysis and betting advice, noting the intriguing dynamics of these fights. For Pacquiao vs. Barrios, it’s suggested that Pacquiao’s durability might lead to a decision victory, favoring bets on the fight lasting over 10.5 rounds. In the Fundora vs. Tszyu rematch, the fight is expected to be back-and-forth, with bets favoring a decision win for Tszyu or the fight going past 10.5 rounds. For Usyk vs. Dubois, Usyk is the favorite due to his skill and improving record, with a suggestion to bet on Usyk to win by decision for a good return.
Fan Take: This return of Manny Pacquiao is a thrilling moment for fight fans, symbolizing the passion and perseverance of boxing legends. The showdowns this weekend could shape the future of several weight classes, highlighting the evolution and excitement of the sport for years to come.
