Manny Motivation 

The legendary Filipino boxer will seek to become the oldest welterweight champion. 

Although there was a face-off and a brief question-and-answer session between Pacquiao and Barrios over the weekend, yesterday we had a press conference with all the members of the card. 

During the conference, both boxers answered some questions and showed a lot of respect for each other, displaying admirable professionalism.

Manny Pacquiao: 

“The sacred flame, the determination, and the desire to work hard are still there. I still enjoy running in the mountains. Not all boxers feel this way. This is a blessing because I’ve had several important fights in my career and I’m still here. I’m back.

“Becoming world champion again would mean a lot to me. Manny Pacquiao always surprises the fans. That’s my passion and it’s really important to me. I want everyone to be happy with this fight.

“Barrios is the kind of boxer who makes people happy. He and I together in the ring will satisfy the fans, and that’s what I want.” 

Mario Barrios took to the microphones to praise Pacquiao but reminded the public that he is the champion:

“It’s a great honor that a legend like Manny wants to return to action and come after my title. This is my most important fight so far, and I’m excited.

“On July 19, I will face a legend. I have nothing but respect for him outside the ring. But inside the ring, he’s just another man trying to take what’s mine. I’m the champion for a reason, and I’m going to prove it.”

WBC President Mauricio Sulaiman was present at the conference: 

“You look at this table and you see six world champions and two future world champions.”

“Manny Pacquiao, who first won the flyweight championship in 1998, has had one of the greatest careers in history, winning everything we can imagine, but he is facing Mario Barrios, the pride of San Antonio, who will not give up his WBC belt that easily.

“As President of the WBC, I am very proud to be part of this event. A Green and Gold Night in Las Vegas.

“The WBC will fully support this event with social responsibility activities.”