Stephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn Images

Amir Khan Eyes Fight With Manny Pacquiao After Boxing Legend’s Return

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Kevin Binoy | Last updated Jul 20, 2025 5:44 PM ET

For some athletes, age really is just a number, and Manny Pacquiao’s recent return to the ring made that loud and clear. At 46 and after four years away from the sport, Pacquiao didn’t just show up against Mario Barrios. He showed he’s still got it.

The comeback sparked excitement across the boxing world, but perhaps no one felt the itch more than Amir Khan. The former world champ, who has been out of the spotlight himself, now sees an opportunity he can’t pass up: a long-awaited showdown with the legendary Pacquiao. And he’s making it known.

Khan posted an image on his Snapchat account with a caption that said, “Omg I would come out of retirement to beat Manny, bring it on.”

It has been three years since Khan stepped away from the squared circle. He last fought in February 2022, when he lost via TKO in the sixth round against Kell Brook.

For Pacquiao at 46, going up against a younger Barrios, the boxing legend proved he’s still got plenty of fight left in him. The match ended in a majority draw, with one judge giving Barrios a slight edge, and the others calling it even.

Pacquiao felt he’d done enough to win, and he has already made it clear: He wants a rematch. He looked sharp early, flashing that signature speed and landing 81 power punches. But Barrios' youth started to take over in the later rounds.

Even so, Barrios had to admit he was impressed by Pacquiao’s strength and awkward style. For someone who's already in the Hall of Fame, Pacquiao’s comeback was nothing short of legendary. For now it seem as though a rematch with Barrios is what he wants, but there are a lot of exciting matchups awaiting the 46-year-old if he decides to stick around.

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

More must-reads: