Pacquiao eyes year-end fight, hints at Barrios rematch after thrilling draw

Manny Pacquiao, fresh from his majority decision draw against Mario Barrios, is already eyeing another fight before the end of 2025.

“This year, this year mga (around) December,” Pacquiao said upon his arrival at NAIA Terminal 3 on Thursday, after returning from a vacation in Italy. He spoke to ABS-CBN’s Dyan Castillejo, confirming with a cheerful “Yes” when asked if he would fight again this year. 

The Filipino boxing legend nodded, raised his eyebrows, and flashed a wide smile at the moment of the question.

The 46-year-old came close to making history in his bout with Barrios. A victory would have made him the oldest WBC welterweight champion, while also marking his record-setting 16th appearance at the MGM Grand Arena in Las Vegas.

Pacquiao (62-8-3, 39 KOs) has yet to announce his next opponent, though a rematch with Barrios (29-2-2, 18 KOs) seems likely. Both fighters have expressed interest in running it back after their closely contested draw three weeks ago.

Who’s next for Pac?

Manny Pacquiao is ready to fight again by the end of 2025!

PBC’s Al Haymon has a three-name hit list:

Tank Davis
Rolly Romero
Barrios rematch

Who do YOU want to see?#Pacquiao #Boxing pic.twitter.com/f1zkfK80iz

— World Boxing News (@WorldBoxingNews) July 25, 2025

Despite a four-year layoff, Pacquiao showed few signs of slowing down, going toe-to-toe with the younger Barrios for the full 12 rounds. 

The world’s only eight-division champion said he was satisfied with how his two-month training camp went. “This is not to brag but for a 4-year layoff, going 12 rounds against a much younger opponent, I’m satisfied with my conditioning,” Pacquiao said.

His strong showing has fueled speculation about several possible matchups. Aside from a Barrios rematch, names such as WBA welterweight champion Rolly Romero and Gervonta Davis have been floated. Ranked as the WBC’s No. 1 contender, Pacquiao has multiple options on the table.

The boxing icon will turn 47 on December 17 and plans to stay in shape for his next bout.

“I will relax a little bit, but I will still train,” Pacquiao added.

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