Manny Pacquiao is set to step into the ring once again, this time in an exhibition match against Japanese kickboxer and mixed martial artist Chihiro Suzuki. The bout will take place on July 28 at the Saitama Super Arena in Japan.
Pacquiao, 45, plans to demonstrate the complexities and challenges of boxing to Suzuki, who has no formal boxing experience. “They think boxing is easier than MMA [but] boxing is harder than MMA because it is more exhausting,” Pacquiao said in Filipino at a press conference in Manila on Tuesday. “My opponent has no boxing experience that is why I want to teach him what boxing is. We are fighting boxing so he is going to learn.”
Pacquiao’s Boxing Legacy
The only prizefighter in history to win championships across eight weight classes, Pacquiao retired after losing to Yordenis Ugas by decision in 2021. Despite his retirement, Pacquiao returned to the ring a year later for an exhibition match against DK Yoo in South Korea.
Exhibition Match Details
The upcoming exhibition match will provide a platform for Pacquiao to showcase his boxing skills against Suzuki, who will face a steep learning curve transitioning from MMA and kickboxing to boxing.
Continued Interest in the Sport
Pacquiao’s return to the ring highlights his enduring passion for boxing and his desire to share his expertise with a new generation of fighters. This match against Suzuki is another opportunity for the legendary boxer to engage with fans and continue his legacy in the sport.