Manny Pacquiao’s comeback at 46 gets Sugar Ray Leonard’s support as he prepares for a title bout with Mario Barrios.
Manny Pacquiao comeback talks are heating up, and one legendary voice is cheering him on.
Sugar Ray Leonard has publicly endorsed the Filipino boxing icon’s return to the ring at age 46, calling it a brave and personal decision.
Pacquiao is scheduled to fight WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios on July 19, 2025, at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.
This marks his first professional bout since losing to Yordenis Ugas in 2021.
Spe Leonard, himself no stranger to comebacks said, “There’s not one thing that will really make people understand why we do what we do. But, you know what, God bless, stay healthy, and take care.”
Leonard, who returned to boxing in his 40s, added, “I’ve made more comebacks than everybody. I hold the record—undisputed”
Despite Leonard’s encouragement, Pacquiao’s comeback has faced criticism.
The WBC’s decision to rank him No. 5, despite his long absence, has raised concerns over fairness and the message it sends to active contenders.
Nonetheless, Leonard believes Pacquiao’s mental toughness could be the deciding factor.
“It’s about mindset. If Manny believes, he can win,” Leonard implied.
Pacquiao, who retired in 2021 to focus on politics, holds the record as the only boxer to win titles in eight divisions.
His July fight will add to his legacy, especially after being inducted into the 2025 International Boxing Hall of Fame
