Just when fans thought Manny Pacquiao had closed the book on his storied career, the legendary boxer is making headlines once again — and not without controversy.

At 46 years old, Pacquiao is officially back in the welterweight rankings, and his name is now tied to a potential summer showdown with someone nearly 20 years younger.

The Fight Nobody Expected: Pacquiao vs. Barrios

Pacquiao has re-entered the WBC welterweight mix at No. 5, and the buzz is that he’ll go up against Mario Barrios, the reigning WBC welterweight champion, who’s 29.

That fight is being targeted for July, and while some fans are excited to see the Filipino icon back in action, others are sounding the alarm bells.

Barrios is young, sharp, and still very much in his prime.

Pacquiao, on the other hand, hasn’t fought professionally since 2021, when he lost to Yordenis Ugas in a lackluster performance that many took as a sign he was done with the elite level for good.

WBC Backs the Comeback — But Concerns Remain

Despite the widespread concerns, WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman has confirmed that the comeback is happening.

“Mario Barrios is going to fight Manny Pacquiao in July,” he said, calling it a “tremendous fight.”

Sulaiman also noted that Pacquiao, whose first world title came with the WBC at flyweight, wants to retire as a WBC champion — a full-circle moment in a historic career.

Still, that hasn’t quieted critics who fear for Pacquiao’s safety.

Given his age and the punishment he’s already endured in over two decades of professional boxing, many wonder if this return is worth the risk.

Pacquiao Believes He’s Still Got It

For his part, Pacquiao seems unfazed by the doubters.

Last year, he told ESPN he still has the tools to compete, saying: “I made history at 40 beating Keith Thurman, and I feel at 45 I have a lot left in the game as I haven’t taken a lot of punishment over the last few years.”

He’s kept himself active through exhibition bouts, including a disappointing display against Japanese kickboxer Rukiya Anpo in 2023.

But those matches were more about entertainment than elite competition — and they didn’t exactly reassure fans that he’s ready for someone like Barrios.

Amir Khan Weighs In with Mixed Emotions

Former world champion Amir Khan, a longtime admirer of Pacquiao, didn’t hide his shock when told about the comeback. “It shocked me a little bit,” he admitted.

“Barrios is still young and hungry, and Manny obviously lost his last fight.”

Khan noted that at this stage, one punch could change everything, and that makes him nervous.

“He’s always one punch away from getting hurt. He’s only getting older.”

When informed Pacquiao is actually 46, Khan’s surprise grew: “Wow.

So almost 50. Older than I thought. So even more to the point.”

The Dilemma: One Last Shot or One Risk Too Many?

Khan did acknowledge that stylistically, Pacquiao could have a chance in the ring.

“Styles make fights,” he said, adding that if Pacquiao wants to become champion again, it’s not out of the question.

But he also questioned the motivation. “Doesn’t he want to just enjoy himself now? He’s had a hard career all his life. Why not sit back and relax?”

That’s the heart of the issue — whether this is a final act of glory or an unnecessary risk for a man who’s already given everything to the sport.