Hall of Fame boxing legend Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao and WBC Welterweight World Champion Mario “El Azteca” Barrios went face-to-face on Wednesday at the final press conference before they headline a star-studded PBC Pay-Per-View on Prime Video this Saturday, July 19 from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.
46-year-old eight-weight world champion Pacquiao can etch his name into another chapter of the history books by going straight from his recent induction into the International Boxing Hall of Fame to a record-breaking world championship-winning performance on July 19.
For 30year-old Texan Barrios, he will look to take down a legend to continue to establish himself as a star in boxing’s glamour division.
Here is what Manny and Mario had to say Wednesday from MGM Grand in Las Vegas:
MANNY PACQUIAO
“I’m here again for another big fight. I’m so thankful to the fans for all their support. Without the fans, boxing is dead. I really appreciate their support.
“I’m okay being the underdog. I’ve been the underdog many times. I’m always bringing surprises.
“I’ve been a challenger many times and it’s always the same feeling. I’m excited to take the belt. He’s a good fighter also, but our job is to entertain the fans. We’re gonna give them a real fight.
“Saturday night it’s going to be a great fight. It’s been a while that I’ve been out of the ring, but I’m still active and exercising all the time. I’m going to prove to everyone that I’m in great condition.
“I’ve been enjoying training camp like I did in the past. Just like when I was 26-years-old. The discipline is still the same. Even with my layoff, my passion is still there.
“I’m here because I love to go toe-to-toe. I want to give the fans what they want. That’s my goal every time I step into the ring.
“I never take it easy in training. I can work hard just like when I was young. Saturday night will be a lot of action and the fans will be happy. That’s my goal.
“We’re back in boxing again. We’re going to show the world that boxing is still alive and kicking. Manny Pacquiao is still here. I’m back.
“It’s amazing to still be fighting here in this arena. It’s a blessing to still be here giving good fights for the fans. I’m excited for the fans.
“I respect Barrios, he’s a champion and he works hard also. This is for the fans.”
MARIO BARRIOS
“It’s been a long camp and we’re ready to step in there come Saturday. This is historic. Hats off to Pacquiao for daring to be great. But it’s my time now and I’m gonna show that come Saturday.
“I’m not going in there looking for the knockout, but I’m going in there with bad intentions and power in both hands. I won’t hesitate to pull the trigger.
“Pacquiao’s had so many victories over many Mexican fighters and now I’m a part of that, but I’m gonna be on the other side with my hand raised. I was a big Juan Manuel Marquez fan and when he knocked out Manny, that was one of my favorite moments.
“It’s all smiles right now, but I know that come fight night that smile won’t be on his face anymore, and neither will mine. The best man will come out with his hand raised.
“I have confidence in my preparation. We’ve had a tremendous training camp with my whole team. I’m walking into this fight with all of that confidence.
“I’ve been preparing for 12 rounds of nonstop action. I know the style that he brings when he steps into the ring. I’m looking to test him in every way come Saturday.
“At the end of the day, he’s just another man in there. Another opponent trying to take my title. Regardless of everything he’s accomplished and given to the sport.
“We have a great game plan for this fight and I’m ready to step in there Saturday. I’m ready for war. Just counting down the days.
“I always put on for San Antonio. I don’t know if it’s something in the water back home, but we have a lot of talent there. I’m very proud to represent San Antonio and my Mexican and indigenous roots.
“Manny Pacquiao is one of a kind. He’s not an easy style to copy in training camp. We’ve gotten a lot of different southpaw looks so I’m feeling extremely comfortable.
“It feels amazing to be in this position. I poured everything into this sport since I was kid, and now I get to walk the strip with my family and see my name all over. It’s something that I’ve always dreamed of. Now it’s my job to show why I’m going to continue to be the champion.”
In addition to being available for purchase on Prime Video, regardless of Prime membership, fans will also be able to continue to access the telecast through traditional cable and satellite outlets as well as PPV.com.
Tickets for the live event are on sale now through AXS.com.
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