Manny Pacquaio has "a chance" at defeating Mario Barrios for the WBC welterweight title this summer, according to Roy Jones Jr.
Last week, Pacquaio announced that he will be ending his near four-year boxing retirement on July 19 with a bout against Barrios, who will defend the WBC belt for the second time since being elevated to full champion in June 2024.
The 16-year age difference between the eight-division world champion and the current WBC welterweight ruler has raised some eyebrows in the boxing world, but Jones gave his support for Pacquaio's ambitions and believes the Filipino could leave Las Vegas with the belt in tow.
“The fact that Pacquiao can get in shape and go 12 rounds at 46 years old is beating most people right there," Jones said while speaking to Prime Casino, who offer the latest Online Slots. "How many people can do that?
“There’s people that are 26 who can’t hardly go one round, and you're doing it at 46, double their age. You got to take your hat off to Manny. I give Manny a chance, you [have] always got to give him a chance. I’m backing him.
“It’s dangerous if you’re 46 in the ring. You could have a stroke tomorrow.”
Watch over 185 fights a year from the world's best promoters with a DAZN subscription. More information here