Heartbreaking Reality Unveiled: Manny Pacquiao’s Comeback Sparks Grim Prediction for the 'Faded' Legend trucc

At 46, Manny Pacquiao will leave behind his career as a politician and make his comeback to the ring on July 20 AEST.

And it won't be some meaningless exhibition, the eight-time division champion will attempt to break his own record by becoming the oldest welterweight champion in boxing history, when he takes on WBC champ Mario Barrios in Las Vegas.

While vision of Pacquiao running hills and sparring has created excitement among fans - one of the sport's prominent promoters is not sold on the event.

Pacquiao hasn't fought since losing a decision to Yordenis Ugás in August 2021, but he says he dearly missed the sport from the moment he stepped away.

Yet Matchroom's Eddie Hearn said he doesn't agree with Pacquiao walking straight into a championship fight, especially at the age of 46.

He also said the decision to name Pacquiao the No.5 ranked welterweight in the WBC makes a mockery of the sport.

"Barrios is not the greatest world champion but I think he'll beat Manny Pacquiao quite handily," Hearn said.

"I'm happy for Manny but it just should work out like that, and you'll see a shot legend in the ring, which I think is quite sad.

"But if he wants to do it and he's got the will to do it, good luck to him. But I just don't think you should be out five years, not fight anybody, and then just stroll back into the rankings because you're Manny Pacquiao.

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"Do the fight, but it shouldn't be for the world championship, in my opinion. But I don't think he has a chance at all, even though Barrios has showed no great form.

"I think he'll just be too young and strong for him."

Pacquiao filled the time away from the sport at his Philippines estate, where he has a full boxing gym, a covered basketball court, a tennis court and facilities for badminton, pickleball and tennis. He also ran in his huge backyard, staying in shape on the one-kilometre space.

Pacquiao claims his famed hand speed and athleticism are still there, and he feels refreshed after four years of not getting hit. But Pacquiao also realises his fans could be worried about a comeback because of his unimpressive effort against Ugás.

Pacquiao says he was undone in 2021 by numerous distractions — his imminent presidential run, a hefty lawsuit filed against him by a management company, and even an ill-advised massage shortly before the bout that left him painfully sore on fight night.

"I was so bothered," he said. "I did a lot of things that aren't good for me."

Pacquiao's return bout will be seen worldwide on Amazon Prime pay-per-view, and he seems likely to capture an audience of fans who remember his incredible prime.

Pacquiao had his first professional fight in January 1995, four months before Barrios was born.

He previously served as a senator from 2016-22. He then made a bid for the presidency in 2022 elections but failed.

A world champion in eight divisions from flyweight to super welterweight, Pacquiao appeared to end a 26-year career in 2021 with a record of 62-8-2 (39 KOs).

Barrios retained the WBC welterweight belt with a draw against Abel Ramos last November in Arlington, Texas.