Boxing legend Manny Pacquiao. George Calvelo, ABS-CBN News/File

MANILA, Philippines – Filipino sports icon Manny Pacquiao is eyeing a stronger comeback in the boxing ring after his failed Senate bid in the 2025 midterm elections.

Pacquiao, 46, has confirmed that he is ending his four-year retirement to see action once more, this time against Mario Barrios for his WBC welterweight title.

READ: Boxing: Shocker in Vegas as Ugás decisions Pacquiao

He will reportedly fight the 29-year-old American boxer in July this year in Las Vegas.

This development aligns with his scheduled induction into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in June, capping a legacy that inspired millions of Filipinos.

READ: Pacquiao to un-retire and fight Barrios for welterweight title: report

His last fight was against Cuban Yordenis Ugas for the WBA welterweight crown on August 21, 2021, also in Las Vegas, where he lost in a unanimous 12-round decision.

"Tuloy ang laban. Tuloy ang serbisyo. Para sa Diyos. Para sa bayan. Para sa bawat Pilipino," Pacquiao said in a statement. 

READ: Pacquiao casts vote in Sarangani, urges Filipinos to make their voices count

Pacquiao thanked his supporters after his failed return bid to the upper chamber of Congress.

"Mula sa aking puso, maraming salamat," he said. "Hindi man ako nagtagumpay sa pagtakbo sa Senado, lubos ang aking pasasalamat sa bawat boto, dasal, at suporta."

He reiterated his love for the country despite the election loss.

"Ang puso ko ay mananatiling nasa bayan. At ang pangarap ko para sa bayan na maiahon ang bawat pamilyang Pilipino ay hindi magbabago."

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