Mario Barrios vs. Manny Pacquiao: Press Conference Quotes and Fight Prediction

Manny Pacquiao (62-8-2, 39 KOs) will attempt to win a world title at the age of 46 when he faces Mario Barrios (29-2-1, 18 KOs).

Their bout headlines a Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) card at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, NV. Fight fans around the world can catch the action live as a pay-per-view (PPV) with either Prime Video or PPV.com. Barrios will be putting his WBC welterweight world title at stake.

Ahead of their July 19 clash, both men spoke at a press conference. Below is some of what they had to say.

Mario Barrios vs. Manny Pacquiao Press Conference Quotes

Mario Barrios

“It’s been a long camp and we’re ready to step in there come Saturday,” said Barrios. “This is historic. Hats off to Pacquiao for daring to be great. But it’s my time now and I’m gonna show that come Saturday.”

“I’m not going in there looking for the knockout, but I’m going in there with bad intentions and power in both hands. I won’t hesitate to pull the trigger.”

“He’s had so many victories over many Mexican fighters and now I’m a part of that, but I’m gonna be on the other side with my hand raised. I was a big Juan Manuel Márquez fan and when he knocked out Manny, that was one of my favoritemoments.”

Manny Pacquiao

“I’m here again for another big fight,” said Pacquiao. “I’m so thankful to the fans for all their support. Without the fans, boxing is dead. I really appreciate their support.”

“I’m okay being the underdog. I’ve been the underdog many times. I’m always bringing surprises.”

“I’ve been a challenger many times and it’s always the same feeling. I’m excited to take the belt. He’s a good fighter also, but our job is to entertain the fans. We’re gonna give them a real fight.”

Fight Prediction

A man can win a boxing world title past the age of 45. George Foreman and Bernard Hopkins have done it. However, to expect Pacquiao to do the same is simply ridiculous. The multi-division world champion has not fought professionally since losing to Yordenis Ugas nearly four years ago. Pacquiao has also not had a win since defeating Keith Thurman, which happened almost six years ago. The time off will definitely impact his abilities.

Barrios may not be the best welterweight in the world, but he is still a decent fighter. Pacquiao struggled in his three-round exhibition against mixed martial artist Rukiya Anpo in July last year. Even with a proper training camp, it is hard to see him defeating someone like Barrios. Expect the reigning world champion to retain his title via a comfortable unanimous decision.

Full Press Conference

For the press conference in its entirety, click here or the play button below. Video courtesy of PBC.