Manny Pacquiao has been removed from the WBC’s rankings just weeks after he re-entered them ahead of his shock return.
The 46-year-old from the Philippines will challenge reigning WBC welterweight world champion Mario Barrios at the MGM Grand Garden Arena on Saturday July 19.
Pacquiao has not fought as a professional since he was beaten by former WBA champion Yordenis Ugas back in 2021, before going on to announce his retirement from the sport shortly after to focus on his political career.
After the 46-year-old’s comeback was made official last month, he was reinstated into the WBC’s welterweight rankings at number five, sparking outrage from the boxing community with many questioning the governing body’s decision.
“The World Boxing Council regulations allow legendary boxers who receive a license from a boxing commission and who pass all their exams to compete for the title.
We made a mistake in ranking him number five, and that caused confusion among the media and fans, obviously saying, “Why is he ranked if he hasn’t fought?” What happened is that permission was granted, the fight was authorised, and we’ll talk again on July 20 to see how it went.
I think we’re going to remove him from the rankings with the clarification that he will fight based on the regulations.”
In the latest update, Pacquiao has been officially removed from the WBC’s rankings ahead of his return next month.