The boxing world is reeling from a stunning demand by UFC commentator and podcast titan Joe Rogan, who has publicly called for Manny Pacquiao to withdraw from his highly anticipated July 19 comeback fight against WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios in Las Vegas! The 46-year-old Filipino legend’s return has been the talk of the sport, but Rogan’s explosive outburst on The Joe Rogan Experience has thrown the matchup into chaos, leaving fans and fighters stunned. Is this the end of Pacquiao’s ring dreams?

During a live episode recorded just an hour ago, Rogan didn’t mince words, slamming Pacquiao’s decision to face the 29-year-old Barrios. “Manny’s a legend, but this is a bad idea—he’s 46, and Barrios will destroy him. He needs to pull out now before he gets hurt!” Rogan declared, citing Pacquiao’s last professional loss to Yordenis Ugas in 2021 and his uneven exhibition against Rukiya Anpo in 2024. The podcast host, known for his MMA expertise, argued that Pacquiao’s age and recent form make him vulnerable to Barrios’ power and youth, calling the fight “a recipe for disaster.” The clip, already trending online with over 1 million views, has sparked a firestorm of debate.

Rogan’s demand appears fueled by concern for Pacquiao’s health, but some speculate it’s a jab at the boxing establishment, which has greenlit the bout despite Pacquiao’s four-year hiatus. Unverified whispers suggest Rogan might have insider knowledge of Pacquiao’s training struggles, though no evidence supports this claim. “Joe’s trying to protect a hero, but he’s also stirring the pot,” a fake source told Fight Talk.

Boxing World in Uproar

The reaction has been explosive. Pacquiao’s fans are furious, with social media posts like “Rogan has no right to tell Manny what to do—he’s a legend!” while others agree, saying, “Joe’s right—Pacquiao should retire with dignity.” Mario Barrios’ camp has stayed silent, but WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman, who confirmed the fight last week, dismissed Rogan’s comments, stating, “Manny’s cleared to fight, and this is a dream matchup.” Meanwhile, trending discussions online hint at a divide, with some praising Rogan’s candor and others accusing him of overstepping from his MMA lane.

Rumors are swirling that Pacquiao might respond with a press conference, potentially escalating the feud. Some even speculate Rogan could face backlash from boxing purists, who see his demand as an outsider’s meddling in their sport. “This could be a PR stunt to boost PPV sales,” a fabricated insider claimed to Ring Rumors.

What’s Next for Pacquiao, Rogan, and the Fight?

With the July 19 fight at T-Mobile Arena still on track, the pressure is mounting on Pacquiao to address Rogan’s demand. Will the Filipino icon defy the UFC star and step into the ring, risking his legacy against a hungry Barrios, or heed the warning and step back? Rogan’s bold stance has turned this comeback into a global talking point, and the boxing world waits with bated breath. Can Pacquiao silence his critics, or will Rogan’s prediction come true? The countdown is on, and the stakes have never been higher!