Photos from Esther Lin/Premier Boxing Champions
At the final press conference, two fighters from two eras meet with mutual respect, sharp focus—and everything to prove.
LAS VEGAS — The cameras flashed, the fans cheered, and two fighters stood face-to-face under the lights of the MGM Grand. One, a legend chasing one last great victory. The other, a champion determined to protect his prime.
At the final press conference for Manny Pacquiao vs. Mario Barrios, held Wednesday, July 16, the air was tense—not from drama, but from purpose. This wasn’t a circus. This was business. A veteran making a mission out of a comeback. A titleholder preparing to slam the door on that comeback.
The bout is set for Saturday, July 19, and both men are ready.
PACQUIAO: STILL HERE, STILL HUNGRY
Pacquiao-Barrios Press Conference. Photos from Esther Lin/Premier Boxing ChampionsAt 46, Pacquiao could be resting comfortably in his post-retirement legacy. Instead, he’s back—fighting not just for a title, but for something intangible: purpose.
“This fight is not just about boxing. It’s about inspiring others,” Pacquiao said. “If you don’t stop dreaming, you can still make it—no matter your age.”
Clad in a tailored navy suit and trademark humility, the Filipino boxing icon dismissed concerns about his age and layoff. He insisted he’s passed all medical exams, undergone full VADA testing, and resolved the leg cramps that plagued him late in his career.
He looked calm. Focused. Dangerous.
BARRIOS: NO FAIRYTALE ENDINGS
Pacquiao-Barrios Press Conference. Photos from Esther Lin/Premier Boxing ChampionsAcross from him stood Mario “El Azteca” Barrios, 29, the reigning WBC interim welterweight champion—young, strong, and confident. He made clear that this wouldn’t be a welcome-back party.
“It’s an honor to face a legend. But I’m not here to celebrate him. I’m here to beat him.”
Barrios carries a record of 29-2-1 with recent wins that include a decisive victory over Yordenis Ugas, the same fighter who handed Pacquiao his last loss in 2021. With height, reach, and youth on his side, Barrios has the physical edge—and the mindset of a champion looking to make his name permanent.
“He picked the wrong guy for a comeback,” Barrios added.
TWO TRAJECTORIES COLLIDE
Pacquiao’s return has drawn debate. Critics questioned whether he should be allowed to jump into a title fight. Supporters called it destiny. The facts?
Pacquiao passed VADA drug tests and all medical clearances.
The WBC confirmed his eligibility under its former-champion comeback rule.
Barrios is an active, proven champion—not a paper opponent.
This isn’t a one-man story. It’s a crossroads bout.
If Pacquiao wins, he becomes one of the oldest welterweight champions in history. If Barrios wins, he claims more than just a scalp—he stamps himself as the real future of the division.
RESPECT—BUT NO MERCY
The final press conference was free of trash talk. But it wasn’t without tension. There was respect in every word, but also an undertone of steel.
“I’m still fast,” Pacquiao said with a grin.
“And I’m still here.”
Barrios didn’t flinch. His tone stayed measured, but resolute.
“We’ll see Saturday night.”
FIGHT NIGHT DETAILS
Date: Saturday, July 19, 2025
Venue: MGM Grand Garden Arena, Las Vegas
Broadcast: Prime Video PPV, PPV.com, and major cable providers
Undercard: Includes Fundora vs Tszyu II and Cruz vs Fierro
