Manny Pacquiao seemingly aims to secure a ring return at forty-four years old against Conor Benn and mark a sensational to the professional ranks following a failed bid to become the president of his native Philippines. The eight-weight world champion has not fought since 2021 following his defeat to Yordenis Ugas and losing his WBA welterweight title in that defeat.
Sean Gibbons, a respected figure and representative of MP Promotions, confirmed to Yahoo Sports that Pacquiao has returned to training and that he is “looking for a fight to end his retirement.” Gibbons took to social media and called out Benn for the fight to which Benn responded with “anytime.” Gibbons said back: “Waiting on Eddie Hearn! Senator ready to Rumble!!”
To which Benn commented: “Biggest Fight of the year! Let’s Go!”
However, there are issues to resolve before the contest can proceed on both parties' fronts.
Firstly, Conor Benn is currently without a current boxing licence following his drug testing issues of which the WBC cleared Benn to return to their welterweight rankings. Benn remains under investigation by the British Boxing Board Of Control and UKAD following two failed tests for Clomiphene. The investigation by the BBBofC according to the governing body is being hampered by a lack of cooperation by Benn and his legal team. Promoter, Eddie Hearn, has confirmed that he is investigating the possibility of securing a licence for Benn from some US state athletic commissions.
Pacquiao on the other hand has management issues with Paradigm Sports Management, who represent him. Legal action is currently ongoing for an alleged breach of contract by Pacquiao and has been ongoing since 2021. A statement published in January by Paradigm states “Pacquiao is now deemed to have admitted that he breached his contract with Paradigm and that Paradigm has suffered more than $20million in damages.”
The statement continues “If any promoters, managers, fighters, or broadcasting networks are considering entering into an agreement with Manny prior to the trial, they are now on notice that Paradigm will immediately commence an action against them for tortious interference with contract and seek both an injunction and damages.
“Once Paradigm wins at trial in March, we will cut off 100 percent of Manny’s opportunities to earn money in the United States from any source because any revenue he generates will be attached to his judgment.
“Additionally, Paradigm will aggressively pursue enforcement of its judgment in any foreign country where Manny seeks to fight.”