Manny Pacquiao, through his advisor Sean Gibbons, has expressed a desire to potentially return to the ring within the next nine months before he retires permanently.
The 45-year-old boxing legend has not competed since his 2021 loss to Yordenis Ugas but was close to finalizing a fight with Conor Benn earlier this year. The negotiations, which took place in Saudi Arabia, ultimately fell through after Benn's drug test failures and the subsequent legal fallout disrupted his eligibility to fight in the UK.
Gibbons shared that the failed negotiations were a disappointment given the buildup and mutual interest in the bout. Looking forward, Gibbons noted that Pacquiao remains open to other opportunities in the boxing world, hinting at a long-held interest in a matchup with UFC star Conor McGregor, although McGregor's busy schedule makes that unlikely. Additionally, with Pacquiao planning to re-enter politics, the window for his return is limited.
Despite the setbacks, Gibbons didn't completely dismiss the possibility of a future fight against Benn, suggesting that it could still happen once Benn's suspension lifts in September. Gibbons also mentioned that a bout with Kell Brook or participating in exhibition matches could be fitting alternatives for Pacquiao's final fights, aiming for competitive matchups that would honor his illustrious career in the sport.
Image Credit: Sky Sports