Pacquiao: Being Away Has Allowed Me To Get Motivated Like in My Early Days

Two years have passed since eight division world champion Manny Pacquiao saw action.

The 42-year-old boxer will be back in the ring this coming Saturday night, when he faces WBA welterweight champion Yordenis Ugas at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

The last time out, in July of 2019, Pacquiao won a twelve round split decision over Keith Thurman to capture the WBA title.

Due to his inactivity, the WBA removed Pacquiao from his championship position and replaced him with Ugas, who at the time held the "regular" belt.

A recent series of events have allowed Pacquiao the opportunity to reclaim his title.

Pacquiao was scheduled to face WBC, IBF welterweight champion Errol Spence, who withdrew with a serious eye injury. He was replaced on late notice by Ugas.

“I am excited to win another world championship on Saturday. I don’t care who has the belt right now, we’ll see who walks out of the ring with it," Pacquiao said.
 
“Being out of the ring has given me time to rest, but also to get motivated like in my early days. I can’t wait to display it all on fight night.
 
“Boxing is my passion. That’s why I’m still here giving inspiration to the boxing fans and bringing honor to my country. I’m happy doing my job and working hard. They have to try to slow me down in training, because I always want to go more rounds.
 
“This could be my last fight, or there could be more. I’m turning 43 in December, and my plan has always been to just go one fight at a time. I encourage the fans all over the world to watch this fight, because you never know.”