The World Boxing Council (WBC) has thrown its support behind Manny Pacquiao's bid for a welterweight world title, despite the boxing legend being 45 years old and not having stepped into the ring since his 2021 defeat to Yordenis Ugas. Even Pacquiao himself announced his retirement after that fight with Ugas.

However, WBC President Mauricio Sulaiman has opened the door for Pacquiao to make a comeback for a world championship. "Manny Pacquiao is timeless. He is a legend," Sulaiman told Sky Sports. "We have a great precedent of former champions coming back as long as they pass all the medical examinations. As a former champion and as a legend, he has the possibility to fight for the WBC championship."

Sulaiman expressed his enthusiasm for the idea, saying: "I really like the idea. I believe Manny Pacquiao can beat any fighter or be competitive with any fighter today. But to have him back in the WBC over two decades after he won his first world championship, which was the WBC flyweight title, and then moving up to welterweight in 2024 would be sensational."

Pacquiao seeks one more championship reign

The WBC welterweight world title is currently vacant after Terence Crawford moved up to 154 pounds, and Pacquiao is eyeing a potential title fight with Mario Barrios. "We are still in negotiations," Pacquiao said last month about the possible fight with Barrios. "And we are talking about it. The fight has not been finalized yet. But negotiations are ongoing."

Sulaiman's comments reflect a sense of excitement about the prospect of Pacquiao returning to the ring for a shot at the WBC title. Despite Pacquiao's age and time away from boxing, Sulaiman believes in his ability to compete at the highest level. "I think Manny Pacquiao can beat any fighter or be competitive with any fighter today," Sulaiman said.

The potential comeback of a boxing icon like Manny Pacquiao has generated significant interest and anticipation within the boxing community. With negotiations underway for a possible title fight, fans are eagerly awaiting the opportunity to see Pacquiao back in action, aiming for yet another historic achievement in his legendary career.