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A Hall of Fame Rival Sends Bold Prediction About Pacquiao vs. Barrios

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Prince Horton | Last updated Jul 14, 2025 9:46 AM ET

A legend who shared the ring with Pacquiao for 42 rounds believes history will be made again.

At 46 years old, Manny Pacquiao is set to return to a familiar battleground—Las Vegas' MGM Grand—this weekend, July 19. The Filipino icon will face off against WBC interim welterweight champion Mario Barrios, 30, in what could be a historic night. As the anticipation builds, a legendary voice from Pacquiao's past has stepped forward with a bold take—one that few are more qualified to give.

Juan Manuel Marquez, the Hall of Famer and Pacquiao's greatest rival, shared his thoughts on the matchup during a recent interview with FightHype. And he didn't hold back.

'Manny Pacquiao is 46 years old but he's professional and training hard every day,' Marquez said. 'Let me tell you something—I think Manny Pacquiao is the new world champion.'

The prediction wasn't vague. Marquez doubled down, citing familiar traits: 'His power and speed—I think Manny Pacquiao will be the new world champion.'

If anyone's opinion carries weight, it's Marquez's. The two shared the ring for a total of 42 rounds across four unforgettable bouts, with Marquez being the only man to score a knockout victory over Pacquiao. Their rivalry remains one of boxing's greatest chess matches, marked by razor-thin decisions, dramatic momentum swings, and timeless tension.

Reflecting on his approach, Marquez shared the mindset it took to face Pacquiao: 'I practice in my mind every day—what is the best point for me to do for the fight? A counterpuncher. I did that very well.'

Whether Pacquiao has one last run in him remains to be seen—but when a man who studied him that closely says he sees gold on the horizon, the world listens.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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