Sad News: Mario Barrios Speaks Out with Five Powerful Words After Manny Pacquiao’s Heartbreaking Withdrawal from July 19 Fight
Las Vegas, Nevada, The boxing world is reeling from a devastating announcement as Manny Pacquiao confirmed he cannot participate in his highly anticipated bout against Mario Barrios on July 19 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena, citing a heartbreaking personal reason that has left fans in shock. The 46-year-old Filipino legend, set to challenge for the WBC welterweight title, revealed via an emotional video statement this morning that a severe health crisis involving his mother, Dionisia Pacquiao, who suffered a critical stroke, forces him to step away. Barrios, the 30-year-old champion, responded with a concise yet poignant five-word message—“Respect, sadness, but life prevails”—shared on social media, reflecting the sport’s admiration for Pacquiao while acknowledging the gravity of the situation. As the event hangs in the balance, this sudden turn has captivated the global boxing community, blending triumph with tragedy.
Pacquiao’s return to the ring, four years after his last professional fight—a loss to Yordenis Ugas in 2021—had promised to make history, with the Hall of Famer aiming to break his own record as the oldest welterweight champion. His announcement, made hours ago, detailed his mother’s hospitalization in Manila and his decision to prioritize family, stating, “My heart is with her now; the ring can wait.” The news has sparked an outpouring of support from fans on social platforms, with many expressing sympathy—“Prayers for Manny and his mom”—while others lament the loss of a marquee event that had sold out the 16,800-seat arena, with tickets starting at $1,480. The Premier Boxing Champions pay-per-view, also featuring Sebastian Fundora vs. Tim Tszyu II, now faces uncertainty, leaving organizers scrambling for solutions.
Barrios, who had prepared for a grueling defense against the eight-division champion, expressed a mix of respect and disappointment. His five-word statement underscores the professional respect he holds for Pacquiao, whom he had vowed to knock out if given the chance, as noted in pre-fight interviews with Yahoo Sports. Coach Bob Santos had emphasized Barrios’ readiness to “pull the trigger” if Pacquiao faded, a scenario now rendered moot by this personal crisis. The champion’s response suggests an acceptance of the situation, though the abrupt cancellation has left him without an opponent, prompting speculation about a replacement or postponement.
The timing, just days before the event, amplifies the shock, with Pacquiao’s training camp—reunited with Freddie Roach—having showcased his determination to defy age. His withdrawal raises questions about the fight’s future, with WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman yet to comment officially. Fans are torn, some urging Pacquiao to return when his family stabilizes, others fearing this might signal the end of his comeback dreams. As the boxing world mourns the loss of this clash between a legend and a rising star, the focus shifts to Dionisia’s recovery, with the MGM Grand event’s fate hanging in the air, captivating all who follow the sport’s unpredictable drama.
