TOKYO — Manny Pacquiao mentioned Monday {that a} title battle towards Mario Barrios is within the works, with particulars nonetheless being negotiated.
Pacquiao, a former world champion who retired in 2021, spoke in Japan on Monday to advertise a three-round boxing exhibition on July 28 towards Japanese MMA fighter Chihiro Suzuki.
“We’re nonetheless in beneath negotiation,” the 45-year-old Pacquiao mentioned of the doable Barrios battle for the WBC welterweight title. “And, we’re speaking about that. The battle shouldn’t be materialized but. However that negotiation is ongoing.”
READ: Pacquiao set for July exhibition, in talks for title bout vs Barrios
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8-division world champion and boxing legend @MannyPacquiao and RIZIN Featherweight Champion @Chihiro__0514 come head to head for the primary time forward of #SuperRIZIN3! pic.twitter.com/bJIbcUDoG3
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He hinted any eventual battle can be in November or December. However he mentioned his thoughts was on Suzuki.
“I simply wish to say to all people. This isn’t an exhibition. It is a battle, a three-round battle,” Pacquiao mentioned. “We will probably be on the lookout for a knockout for this battle. So that you higher watch, and it’s going to be loads of motion within the ring. And, after all, I’ll do my greatest to win by knockout. Thanks.”
Pacquiao misplaced within the run for the presidency of the Philippines in 2022.
READ: Manny Pacquiao ‘able to go’ for comeback battle–probably in Saudi
His profession boxing document is 62 wins (39 KOs), 8 losses and a couple of attracts.
Suzuki is aware of he’s up towards a legend.
“In a approach this can be a problem for me,” he mentioned. “It’s an actual honor to have the ability to battle towards somebody who has made historical past, so I’ll face him with respect. For me, it’s one of many greatest challenges of my life and a take a look at that I’ve to beat.”