Pacquiao vs Barrios for July not official just yet - insider

The reported comeback of eight-division champion Manny Pacquiao is not official just yet, a reliable Team Pacquiao insider clarified on Friday.

Earlier today, ESPN reported that Pacquiao will lace it up again at 46 years old against WBC world welterweight champion Mario Barrios on July 19 in Las Vegas.

"Manny Pacquiao is running for senator. He is not thinking about boxing until after the May 12 election. He will review what is next after that," the source told GMA News Online.

Pacquiao, 62-8-2 with 39 knockouts, last saw action in an official professional boxing match when he dropped a unanimous decision loss to Yordenis Ugas in 2021.

He figured in a couple of exhibition bouts since that fateful night and had hinted at making a ring return several times in the past.

The Filipino boxing icon will be inducted into the prestigious Boxing Hall of Fame next month.

—JKC, GMA Integrated News