
Manny Pacquiao Returns from Retirement for WBC Title Fight Against Mario Barrios
TDT | Manama
Boxing legend Manny Pacquiao has announced his return from retirement to challenge WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios on 19 July at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.
The 46-year-old Filipino icon, who made history as the only boxer to win world titles across eight weight divisions, aims to add another chapter to his storied career. Pacquiao, who also became the oldest welterweight world champion at age 40 in 2019, last fought in 2021 before stepping away from the ring to focus on his political career, including a stint as a Filipino senator from 2016 to 2022 and a presidential run in 2022.
'I'm back,' Pacquiao declared on Instagram. 'On July 19, I return to the ring to face WBC Welterweight Champion Mario Barrios at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. Let's make history.'
The announcement sets the stage for a high-stakes showdown, with Pacquiao looking to defy the odds once again against the reigning champion Barrios. The fight marks a significant moment for the boxing world, as one of its greatest figures seeks to reclaim glory in the welterweight division.

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


Daily Tribune
a day ago
- Daily Tribune
Bahrain Build Momentum, Cairo Sets the Scene
TDT | Manama Final Stretch With the AFC Men's Volleyball Nations Cup fast approaching, Bahrain's national team has settled into a training camp in Cairo, Egypt. Running through June 12, the camp is designed to elevate every aspect of the squad's game ahead of their home-soil campaign starting June 17. The setup is meticulous. Players are immersed in daily technical drills, physical conditioning, and high-intensity friendly matches—all under the watchful guidance of head coach Arnaud from France and his assistant Mishal Turki. This phase is as much about fitness as it is about rhythm, chemistry, and getting the final 14-player roster battle-tested. Meet the Camp Squad Sixteen players made the trip to Cairo, each with a clear goal: earn their spot and bring sharpness to the team's core. Among them are seasoned names like Mohammed Anan, Nasser Anan, and Mahmoud Abdulhussein, joined by rising figures such as Abbas Sultan and Ayman Haroona. The training is as competitive as it is calculated. Sessions move fluidly between tactical walkthroughs and match-style scrimmages, creating an environment that mirrors tournament conditions. Coaches are assessing not just form, but cohesion and adaptability—two essentials in any short-format international competition. Tournament on the Horizon Hosted at Isa Bin Rashid Volleyball Hall in Riffa, the AFC Nations Cup runs from June 17 to June 24, with Bahrain placed in Group A alongside Indonesia and Thailand. It's a manageable group, but one that offers no room for complacency.


Daily Tribune
2 days ago
- Daily Tribune
Streetball Lights Up Bahrain
TDT | Manama Bahrain's basketball fans are in for a treat this June as the Bahrain 3x3 Summer Tour hits the court, bringing exciting half-court action to the kingdom. Sanctioned by FIBA, the global basketball authority, the debut tournament marks another leap forward for the sport locally. The winners will secure a place in the FIBA Challenger series—an international springboard. Game On for All Teams of four can sign up from clubs, universities, companies, or community groups, making the tour as inclusive as it is competitive. Whether players are pros or passionate amateurs, this is a chance to step into the spotlight. A Smart Play for Growth The Bahrain Basketball Association (BBA) is tapping into the global momentum of 3x3 basketball—fast, accessible, and Olympic-recognised. By establishing the Summer Tour as a fixture on the calendar, the BBA hopes to fuel participation, boost the sport's profile, and discover new talent ready for the world stage. Mudara's Vision for the Future BBA president Alaa Mudara sees big potential in the format. 'The 3x3 Summer Tour is about building a basketball future for Bahrain,' he said. 'We want to grow this game, find new stars, and give players a pathway to compete internationally.' With FIBA's backing, the event carries serious weight. It's a proving ground for talent—and a launchpad for bigger opportunities. Courts Set, Spotlight On As the tournament tips off, expect tightly contested games and breakout performances. Bahrain's basketball culture is turning up the volume. Key takeaways: Did You Know? 3x3's Olympic status drives Bahrain's basketball surge, inspiring the BBA's Summer Tour.


Daily Tribune
2 days ago
- Daily Tribune
Red Falcons Ready Focused
TDT | Manama Bahrain's national team sharpens up ahead of crucial World Cup qualifiers against Saudi Arabia and China Bahrain's national football team is intensifying preparations for two vital Asian World Cup qualifying matches, set to take place against Saudi Arabia (June 5) and China (June 10). The Red Falcons gathered for a focused training session on Saturday evening at Al Ahli Club Stadium, fine-tuning their tactics and fitness ahead of the ninth and tenth rounds of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. Leadership Presence, Morale Boost His Highness Shaikh Khalifa bin Ali Al Khalifa, Vice President of the Bahrain Football Association, was on hand to oversee preparations and offer encouragement to both players and staff. His close support highlights the importance Bahrain places on these upcoming fixtures, which are critical steps in the team's journey to the World Cup. Injury Update Mohamed Marhoon rejoined the team following the conclusion of his commitments with Kuwait SC. After sustaining a blow to the cheekbone, Marhoon underwent medical assessments in the morning, which confirmed he was fit to continue with the squad. He participated in a light recovery session during the evening training, signaling a positive step in his return to full match fitness. Tactical Precision Under the watchful eye of Portuguese coach Rui Pinto, the squad ran through a varied training program — from stretching exercises to tactical drills, culminating in live scrimmages designed to replicate match conditions. The training emphasized cohesion, sharpness, and readiness to face some of Asia's toughest opponents. Full Focus in Camp The squad has since entered a closed training camp at the Wyndham Grand Hotel, allowing the team to focus fully on the upcoming challenge. With the match against Saudi Arabia looming, the camp environment aims to build team unity and tactical clarity as Bahrain pushes for a spot in the World Cup.