Manny Pacquiao’s opponent ready for ‘backlash’ if he sends Filipino icon back into retirement

Manny Pacquiao will end his four year retirement to challenge for Mario Barrios’ WBC welterweight title, but the Mexican is ready to defend his title by any means necessary.

Manny Pacquiao (left) and Mario Barrios face off (Getty Images)

Mario Barrios enters the ring this weekend ready to put a definitive end to Manny Pacquiao’s career and defend his WBC welterweight title.

Pacquiao, an eight-division world champion, has faced heavy criticism for making a comeback after a four-year retirement, now 46. If he wins against Barrios, it will make him one of boxing’s oldest world champions ever.

But Barrios is not fazed by facing a legend of the sport or any “backlash” he may receive for forcing Pacquiao back into retirement.

Barrios explained to The Ring: “I’m ready to get backlash if I retire him – it comes with it. Any fighter in my division would be more than happy to take this fight as well. It’s just my job to go in there and do what I do best.”

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In his prime, Pacquiao was affectionately named the ‘Mexecutioner’ for his impressive record against some of the greatest Mexican fighters of his generation – he claimed wins over Antonio Margarito, Juan Manuel Marquez, Erik Morales and Marco Antonio Barrera.

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Coming from a proud Mexican heritage, Barrios does not plan to be next on the long list of Mexicans to fall at the hands of 'Pac-Man'.

Barrios said: “He’s beaten a lot of Mexican fighters before, but he hasn’t faced a Mexican fighter like me. Every time I step in the ring, I represent my Mexican roots and indigenous roots very proudly.”

The WBC champion added that he is preparing for a prime Pacquiao and is not taking his age or inactivity for granted. Although his intentions are not to go in there to retire an icon like Pacquiao, but he has to defend his belt by any means necessary.

Barrios said: “I’m preparing as if I am fighting a prime Manny. He’s a legend for a reason. He’s still dangerous. It’s my job to go in there and defend my title. I am expecting the best version of many regardless.”

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He concluded: “Maybe I am going to be the one who retires him. That’s not what my goal is in there. I just want to make sure I go home with my strap. A name like Manny is huge for my resume.”

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