HOLLYWOOD — Freddie Roach discovered that Manny Pacquiao was planning to come out of retirement, much like many others do. So, in May, when ESPN reported Pacquiao would break his four-year hiatus from boxing to face WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios on July 19 in Las Vegas, the 65-year-old trainer experienced a whirlwind of emotions.
Roach reminisced about their past successes and felt excited about the possibility of Pacquiao adding to his legendary career, potentially becoming the first Hall of Famer to win a world title again. “But then I began to think about the downsides,” Roach recalled in late June. “Your thoughts can be erratic at night. Should he retire, or should we go ahead and fight? I found myself wanting to call him and urge him to retire, and just a few hours later, wishing to encourage the comeback.”
“I generally trust my instincts and aim for the right decision. There are both right and wrong paths, and I don’t want any of my fighters to get hurt,” he added. The last time Roach assisted Pacquiao was during a disappointing points loss against Cuban Yordenis Ugás in 2021. The 42-year-old Pacquiao, in that fight, was a shadow of the explosive champion who claimed titles across eight weight divisions.
After doing everything the sport offered, Pacquiao retired and pursued an unsuccessful presidential bid in the Philippines in 2022. Yet, his recent decision to return to the ring signals the complex journey many fighters face, despite their intentions to retire. “It’s tough to let go of your passion,” Pacquiao remarked. “After four years, I realized my body needed rest, but I still have the drive to challenge my limits and continue my career.”
‘He Wants It Back’
Roach recognizes that the challenges fighters face are universal, having been one himself. Few possess the awareness to know when to step away and the resolve to do so. Any initial doubts Roach had about Pacquiao’s comeback were eased during their discussions. He may not have voiced his concerns before the news broke but ensured they addressed everything necessary for a safe return.
“I would never allow a fighter back into the ring unprepared,” Roach stated emphatically. Pacquiao assured Roach that he was training intensively and had the right motivations for returning. “It’s not about ‘turning back the clock,’” Roach noted. “He simply misses that feeling and wants it back.” What Roach valued most was Pacquiao’s unparalleled work ethic, which elevated the training environment at Wild Card Boxing.
A Challenging Task Ahead
While reuniting with Pacquiao was a joyful experience, Roach had personal reservations too. He questioned his readiness to lead a training camp and effectively prepare Pacquiao for another demanding title fight. Living with Parkinson’s for over half his life, Roach contemplated whether he could provide the necessary training for another 12-round bout against a younger fighter.
Barrios, 30, recently defeated Ugás to claim the interim WBC welterweight title, improving to 29-2-1. He poses a significant challenge with size and reach advantages, standing seven inches taller than Pacquiao’s 5-foot-5 frame. “This fight is unique,” Pacquiao said, beaming. “It raises questions: At 46, can Manny still compete? Can he still win?”
Pacquiao arrived in Los Angeles prepared to find the answers. Without any rest, he began his training regime, including a rigorous workout at Wild Card Boxing. A month into training, concerns about his four-year absence faded away. Roach, known for being demanding, advised Pacquiao to focus on rest and recovery rather than excessive running.
Ultimately, Roach shifted away from doubts, focusing on the excitement of watching Pacquiao demonstrate his capabilities once more. “Seeing him in the ring and showcasing his talent feels like experiencing life anew,” Roach concluded.
