Overview

• Manny Pacquiao has been reinstated at No. 5 in the WBC welterweight rankings, paving the way for his return to professional boxing.
• The eight-division world champion will challenge reigning WBC welterweight titleholder Mario Barrios on July 19 in Las Vegas.
• Pacquiao is invoking the WBC's 'Champion Emeritus' clause, which allows former champions to bypass eliminators for a direct title shot.
• The 46-year-old last fought professionally in August 2021, losing to Yordenis Ugas, and has since participated in two exhibition bouts.
• The announcement has sparked concerns among fans about Pacquiao's safety at his age, as well as criticism of the WBC's ranking policies.