The legendary Manny Pacquiao says he is ready to round off a glittering career in style by winning back his old WBA Super welterweight title against current champion Yordenis Ugas in Las Vegas this weekend.
The eight-division world champion was scheduled to face WBC/IBF 147lbs champion Errol Spence before the American withdrew due to requiring surgery on an eye injury.
Pacquiao, who won the WBA Super title against Keith Thurman back in 2019, was stripped of his champion status due to inactivity, with Ugas being promoted from ‘Regular’ to ‘Super’ champion.
Now 42 years of age, the Filipino fighting icon is determined to reclaim the WBA crown by delivering a spectacular performance on August 21.
“I feel great. My team has full confidence in my capabilities even at 42 years old and they note that I still have what it takes to face elite calibre opponents. Although the recuperation period of a 42-year-old may not be the same as a 25-year-old, I still love what I’m doing. I’m enjoying training and I’m learning more about myself everyday,” Pacquiao said to Betway.
“Everything is top secret, of course. I’m training and challenging myself daily and I am inspired to perform at my best owing to the fact that this might be my last fight. I’ve never given predictions. I always climb the ring ready and prepared for everything.
“Everything is at stake as this might be my last fight. I might as well finish the race with a spectacular performance. Legacies are subjective to the minds of the fans. Of course, a win for me after so long out would be very grand for my country and family.”