Manny Pacquiao motions to the crowd during a ceremonial weigh-in Friday, July 18, 2025, in Las Vegas. (AP Photo/John Locher)
LAS VEGAS–Manny Pacquiao is on the verge of making more milestones but will need a victory over Mario Barrios to seal it on Saturday.
But even before stepping on the ring to challenge the WBC welterweight champion Barrios, Pacquiao has somewhat already assured himself of a record.
READ: ‘Boxing needs Manny Pacquiao’ – Justin Fortune
.@MGMGrand unveils a banner commemorating @MannyPacquiao record 16th fight at the Grand Garden. #PacquiaoBarrios pic.twitter.com/QridiaVluU
— Premier Boxing Champions (@premierboxing) July 18, 2025
After both fighters comfortably made the 147-pound limit during Friday’s weigh-in, Pacquiao is officially making his return from a four-year retirement for his 73rd professional fight and a record 16th appearance at MGM Grand Garden Arena.
As tribute, a banner was unveiled at the arena’s rafters with the words “He’s back.”
The 46-year-old Pacquiao broke the record previously held by rival Floyd Mayweather Jr.
READ: Underdog Manny Pacquiao out to defy odds again vs Mario Barrios
Pacquiao shared the record with Mayweather when he lost to Cuba’s Yordenis Ugas in August 2021 before announcing his retirement.
Mayweather, who has been retired since 2017, last fought at MGM Grand Arena in September 2015 when he outpointed Andre Berto to retain the WBA and WBC welterweight titles.
The Berto bout came after Mayweather beat Pacquiao by unanimous decision in their May 2015 megafight.
Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again.
Your subscription has been successful.