It turns out that Manny ‘Pacman’ Pacquaio is definitely not retired from professional boxing just yet.
Not by a long shot. He let is slip to former world champion Carl Froch that he is in fact definitely coming back next year.
Speaking to Carl Froch on his YouTube channel ‘Pacman’ said:
“I’m pumped because I’ve run into a true legend, the man himself—Pacman! Pacquiao, it’s so good to see you. You’re always smiling.
You were recently inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame—a well-deserved honor for an unbelievable career. What’s your most memorable fight? I know there are so many, but for you, which one stands out the most?
Pacquiao: My most memorable fights? Not just one, but a few. The Hatton fight, the De La Hoya fight, and the Barrera fight stand out.
Oh, we definitely remember the Hatton fight. That one was incredible.
Pacquiao: Yes, yes.
Do you have a favorite fight out of those?
Pacquiao: Probably the Hatton fight. Two rounds.
Two rounds! Did you expect it to end so quickly?
Pacquiao: No, I didn’t expect it to be that quick, but I was confident that I could knock him out.
I was at the Mayweather fight, and honestly, I felt you weren’t at your best. You’ve had such a long career. Do you think the result would’ve been different if you had fought him earlier in your career?
Pacquiao: It just happened that when we fought, I had an injury during training—my shoulder.
Oh, an injury?
Pacquiao: Yes, my shoulder was injured.
Did that affect your training as well?
Pacquiao: Yes, it did. I could feel it in the fight too. That’s why I had surgery on my shoulder after the fight.
Right, that makes sense. Still, you gave it your all and fought hard until the end. But it was clear you weren’t yourself. You’re known for your high work rate, your nonstop energy—you’re like a machine in the ring. That fight was disappointing because it came so late in your career. Still, you were up against Mayweather, and he’s a fantastic fighter, one of the best.
Pacquiao: Yes, it was one of my dream fights. But unfortunately, during training, I injured my shoulder. I wasn’t at 100% in the ring. It was really hard for me.
How’s life now? Are you keeping up with YouTube boxing and the Misfits scene? Any plans to come back?
Pacquiao: Actually, I’m planning to come back next year.
Really?
Pacquiao: Yes, yes. I’m still in shape. I train and work out regularly. I also play basketball, which I love.
Do you still watch boxing?
Pacquiao: Of course! Boxing is my passion, so I enjoy watching it.
Speaking of great fighters, Tyson Fury is set to face Oleksandr Usyk soon. Who do you think will win?
Pacquiao: That’s a good fight. It depends on how both of them prepare. They both have a chance.
If you had to bet everything you have, who would you pick?
Pacquiao: Whoever puts in the extra effort in training will win.
(Laughs) You’re such a politician. That’s a very diplomatic answer!
Pacquiao: It’s hard to say. If one of them doesn’t train as hard as expected, it could be disappointing.
Fair enough. Fury is a great fighter, though he’s past his prime at 37. But Usyk is formidable.
Last one: Beterbiev vs. Bivol. Who do you think wins the rematch?
Pacquiao: That’s another 50/50 fight. It could go either way. People should watch it—it’ll be a great fight, for sure.
And what about me vs. Jake Paul?
Pacquiao: (Laughs) Jake Paul?
You don’t think Jake Paul can beat me, right?
Pacquiao: You’re the Cobra, right? You have venom! Venom is dangerous.
(Laughs) Thanks for your time, Pac. It’s been great catching up. Enjoy the show!
Pacquiao: Thank you. Take care, everyone.”
Who he takes on is interesting.
That remains to be seen who that will be of course.
That is the big question.
Good banter and analysis between the two above, too, despite being from different parts of the world boxing is universal.
Pacquiao was recently inducted into the 2025 Boxing Hall of Fame.
