Many were surprised when Manny Pacquiao officially announced his return from retirement to challenge World Boxing Council (WBC) welterweight champion Mario Barrios.This bout will be Pacquiao's first in four years, and at 46 years old, he faces a significant challenge: Barrios, who is 16 years younger and stands six inches taller than the 5-foot-6 Filipino legend.However, "Sugar" Shane Mosley—a fellow boxing great and former opponent who recently joined Pacquiao's training camp in Los Angeles—believes Pacquiao can emerge victorious at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas on Saturday, July 19. Mosley, who lost to Pacquiao by unanimous decision in 2011 while defending his WBO welterweight title, noted that Pacquiao is in great shape both physically and mentally.

Boxing icon Manny Pacquiao, the first and only eight-division world champion in the sport’s illustrious history, is set to make a historic return to the ring. At 46 years old, the Filipino legend will face off against current WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios on July 19 at the prestigious MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada.This comeback is nothing short of monumental—should Pacquiao claim victory over Barrios, he will shatter records by becoming the oldest welterweight world champion, surpassing the milestone he previously set at age 40. Yet standing in his path is a formidable opponent: Barrios, nearly two decades Pacquiao’s junior, brings youthful energy, relentless activity, and significant momentum—a combination that could redefine both fighters’ legacies.As the fight approaches, Pacquiao appears to be in peak condition. In a rare and powerful move, WBC President Mauricio Sulaiman recently announced early results from Pacquiao’s anti-doping test, confirming that the former champion tested negative for banned substances under the rigorous WBC Clean Boxing Program.This early release of test results is significant—it underscores Pacquiao’s commitment to integrity in a sport often marred by controversy. Typically, results from the Clean Boxing Program—coordinated by the WBC and the Voluntary Anti-Doping Association (VADA)—remain confidential until after the fight. Such disclosures usually follow final testing, which VADA releases post-bout.Sulaiman also highlighted a notable surge in testing activity, with intensified scrutiny worldwide. Fighters enrolled in the Clean Boxing Program undergo random drug testing year-round, face increased monitoring in the 6–12 weeks leading up to a fight, and may be tested in the final 30 days and even on fight day.At this time, there are no public updates regarding Barrios’ test results. It’s worth noting that due to his retirement, Pacquiao had not been included in the program’s ongoing testing pool—making his clean return all the more remarkable.With this proactive announcement of test results, the WBC sends a powerful message: Manny Pacquiao is not only clean, but also primed and prepared to silence doubts about his age, hiatus, or ability to compete at the elite level once again. Boxing fans can anticipate an electrifying showdown that could stand as a testament to enduring greatness.

As we continue our Player Profile Series featuring the greats from the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA), we now take a look at the contributions of the league’s 1990 Most Valuable Player.Allan Caidic, known as “The Triggerman” in the PBA, entered the league in 1987 as the first overall pick by the Great Taste Coffee Makers. He immediately made an impact, winning Rookie of the Year honors and capturing a championship in his debut season.Three seasons later, he claimed the league’s highest individual honor—his lone MVP award—and added a second championship to his resume that same year.

Marck Espejo’s journey from a young Marikina native to one of the Philippines’ most decorated volleyball icons is nothing short of inspiring. His name now echoes across Asian courts as a symbol of excellence and perseverance.Born on March 1, 1997, Espejo discovered his love for volleyball at a young age. His dream began taking shape during his time at Santa Elena High School. Espejo quickly rose through the ranks, securing Best Attacker awards at prestigious tournaments like the 2012 Palarong Pambasa, 2011 Milo Little Olympics, and the 2012 and NCR Volleyball Regional Meet. His exceptional performance quickly put him on the national radar. Ateneo de Manila University saw the potential in the young spiker and brought him in to join the Blue Eagles’ men’s volleyball team. In his UAAP debut during Season 76, Espejo made an immediate impact by claiming both the Rookie of the Year and the Season MVP honors—an extraordinary achievement for a first-year player.That was only the beginning.Espejo spearheaded Ateneo’s championship dynasty from Season 77 to 79, claiming three straight UAAP titles and dominating the individual awards list with multiple Best Attacker, Best Server, Best Scorer, and MVP honors. He closed out his collegiate career with a historic 55-point explosion against FEU in the Season 80 semifinals, cementing his legacy with one of the most remarkable performances in UAAP history.

The Alas Pilipinas Men suffered their second straight loss in the AVC Men’s Volleyball Nations Cup 2025 after bowing to Chinese Taipei, 19-25, 25-23, 28-30, 20-25, on Wednesday, June 18, in Manama, Bahrain.The loss has relegated the team to the classification phase of the tournament where they will face the defeated teams in other pools to determine their final standing. Team captain Marck Espejo led the Alas Men with a game-high 26 points from 22 attacks and four blocks after a brief knee injury scare during the fourth set. Earlier in the tournament opener against Pakistan—a match the Nationals fell short—Espejo sustained an ankle injury but was later medically cleared to continue playing.Leo Ordiales backstopped Espejo’s effort with 15 markers. 

The TNT Tropang 5G kept their Grand Slam bid alive after surviving the grit and grind of the Magnolia Chicken Timplados Hotshots, 89-88, on Wednesday, June 18, at the Philsports Arena in Pasig.RR Pogoy came alive in the pivotal moments, finishing with 30 points to lead TNT to a crucial victory and force a knockout game on Saturday, June 21."Mindset ko lang eh ayaw ko magpatalo, ayaw ko mag-bakasyon," said Pogoy, who helped erase a 13-point Magnolia lead.Supporting Pogoy in the must-win game were Calvin Oftana and Jordan Heading, who chipped in 21 and 10 points, respectively.Veteran Kelly Williams and Brandon Ganuelas-Rosser also came up big, scoring 12 and 10 points. They drained back-to-back triples in the dying minutes to help seal the win.

Five years ago, Mario Barrios would have been the perfect matchup for eight-division world champion Manny Pacquiao. At 6’0 tall and not the most agile, Barrios embodies the type of fighter that Pacquiao excelled against in his prime—tall, flat-footed, and susceptible to quick movements and speed.Pacquiao is also the first boxer in history to win major world titles in four of the original eight weight classes of boxing: flyweight, featherweight, lightweight, and welterweight.Throughout his storied career, the 5-foot-5 Filipino superstar consistently took down larger opponents like Oscar De La Hoya and Antonio Margarito, utilizing his signature speed and footwork to deliver quick combinations before slipping away from their reach.However, that was a different time.Now, at 46 years old, Pacquiao hasn’t been in the ring professionally for four years. His last fight—a unanimous decision defeat against Yordenis Ugas in 2021—revealed signs of wear and tear, even against an opponent who seemed like a good fit stylistically.This reality is what casts Pacquiao as an underdog ahead of his much-anticipated comeback against Barrios on July 19 (July 20 in Manila) at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. Nevertheless, he shouldn't be underestimated.Justine Fortune, Pacquiao's long-time strength and conditioning coach, believes Pacquiao still has a spark. Fortune expressed high praise for Pacquiao’s recent training sessions in Los Angeles. “Look, on the mitts and bags, they don’t hit back, but he’s looking as sharp as he did six or seven years ago. He hasn’t lost a step,” said Fortune.He also noted that Barrios, while talented, isn’t the hardest target to hit. “Barrios takes a lot of punches, and Pacquiao is definitely the last person you want hitting you like that. Once you take those shots, you can start swelling up, and if he clips you, it could lead to cuts.”And when asked for his prediction? Fortune was straightforward: “I see a stoppage. This fight won’t go the distance.”

Fresh off from their dominant three-day Alas Pilipinas Invitationals, Alas Men absorbed a four-set loss, 25-18, 25-12, 18-25, 25-22, to World No. 49 Pakistan in their game opener of the AVC Men’s Volleyball Nations Cup 2025, Tuesday night, June 17, in Manama, Bahrain.Following a rough start in the first two sets, Alas Men bounced back in the third set with Leo Ordiales igniting a crucial rally pouring 10 of his game-high 22 points to keep the match alive.Down 19-22 in the fourth set, Ordiales teamed up with his fellow National University stars Buds Buddin and Peng Taguibolos to trim the deficit to one, 21-22.

Jia De Guzman is making her Premier Volleyball League (PVL) return with the Creamline Cool Smashers, but her heart and full attention remain with Alas Pilipinas as they gear up for a busy international calendar.Speaking during the Philippine Sportswriters Association (PSA) Forum, the veteran setter made it clear that her main focus is on the national team’s ongoing campaign.“Of course, I’m going back to Creamline, but I went to a team that also knows that I have responsibilities also for the flag,” said De Guzman. “This is national team season, and Rebisco management made it clear that they’re fully supportive while we serve the country.”

The Oklahoma City Thunder started and finished strong to secure a 120-109 victory over the Indiana Pacers in Game 5 of their best-of-seven finals series on Tuesday, June 17 (PH time).

With two major tournaments fast approaching, the Gilas Pilipinas Women’s team found itself in uncertainty as three veteran players are still committed to their duties with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP.)With Janine Pontejos and Chack Cabinbin serving in the Philippine Army, while Women’s Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (WMPBL) MVP Afril Bernardino in the Philippine Navy, the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) is now working to obtain the necessary AFP clearances for the trio to compete in the Jones Cup and FIBA Women’s Asia Cup in July.The SBP insists it is closely monitoring the situation, but uncertainty lingers as the clearance process for the players remains stalled.Still, Gilas Pilipinas Women’s head coach Pat Aquino says the team is ready to adapt to whatever happens, noting that for now, they are maintaining the status quo with Pontejos, Cabinbin, and Bernardino.

The Philippine Basketball Association officially approved on Monday, June 2, the one-on-one trade between guards Jordan Heading and Mikey Williams.With the trade finalized, Heading will now be wearing the TNT Tropang 5G jersey, while Williams is set to don the Converge FiberXers colors.

After 25 years of waiting, the Indiana Pacers have returned to the NBA Finals stage.The Pacers did it on Sunday, May 6 (Philippine time), when they defeated the New York Knicks in Game 6 of their Eastern Conference Finals series, 125-108, at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis.

The Masters Pinoy Pilipinas Basketball squad emerged victorious in the 45-up division at the World Masters Games, clinching the gold medal after a hard-fought 103-92 win over Mongolia on Monday, May 26, at the Fujen Catholic University Gymnasium in Xinzhuang, New Taipei City, Taiwan.Veteran leadership and experience powered the Filipinos to the top. Team captain Gilbert Malabanan led by example, putting up an impressive stat line of 25 points, seven rebounds, eight assists, and two steals. His all-around performance and court command anchored the team throughout the championship game.Sharp-shooting guard Rendell Dela Rea added firepower from the perimeter, knocking down four three-pointers on his way to 24 markers, providing a steady offensive boost and keeping the defense on their heels.Inside the paint, Marlon Basco delivered a commanding performance with a double-double of 23 points and 11 rebounds, along with four assists, two steals, and a block. His physical presence and relentless effort on both ends of the floor were key in fending off Mongolia’s inside attacks.Guiness Nabung also made valuable contributions in the starting rotation, finishing with four points, two rebounds, and two assists, adding balance to both ends of the court.The steady hand of Roger Yap proved vital in the gold medal game. The veteran guard served as the team’s stabilizer, orchestrating plays and maintaining composure under pressure. Yap flirted with a triple-double, tallying nine points, seven rebounds, and a game-high 13 assists. His floor leadership was instrumental in guiding the team from a nine-point deficit to a decisive 11-point win.

In a sea of rising stars in Philippine volleyball, one name continues to shine brighter with each spike and block—Thea Gagate. Born on July 26, 2000, the towering middle blocker from De La Salle University (DLSU) has carved her own path from a promising rookie to a key figure in both the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) and the Philippine national team.Gagate’s first taste of collegiate volleyball came in 2020, wearing the green and white jersey of the DLSU Lady Spikers. It was a dream come true, but the dream was short-lived. The UAAP Season 82 was abruptly canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, putting a halt to her much-anticipated debut season.But even when the world paused, Thea didn’t stop. She trained, stayed ready, and waited for her moment.In 2022, the UAAP roared back to life. Thea, now no longer a rookie but still with much to prove, stepped onto the court with focus and fire. Her performance in Season 84 spoke volumes.She helped lead the Lady Spikers to a runner-up finish, losing only to the dominant National University (NU) lady Bulldogs in the Finals. Despite the loss, Thea’s impact didn’t go unnoticed—she was named the 1st Best Middle Blocker, a testament to her defensive prowess and court awareness.It wasn’t just a personal victory. It was a statement: Thea Gagate had arrived.

In this Player Profile Series, we look back at the career of Benjie Paras—“The Tower of Power”—the only player in PBA history to win Rookie of the Year and MVP in the same season.Paras was drafted by the Shell Turbo Chargers in 1989 and made an immediate impact. With his strength, mobility, and basketball IQ, he brought a complete inside presence—shot-blocking, rebounding, mid-range shooting, and post scoring. Shell didn’t win a title that year, but Paras’ dominant rookie season stood out above the rest.

Aiza Maizo-Pontillas’s rise in Philippine volleyball is a story of passion, leadership, and relentless pursuit of excellence. Born on a leap day, February 29, 1988, Aiza’s journey began at Passi National High School, where the seeds of her volleyball dreams were planted. But it was at the University of Santo Tomas (UST) that she truly blossomed — transforming from a back-up setter into one of the fiercest opposite hitters the country has seen.Her collegiate years with the UST Golden Tigresses were nothing short of remarkable. Starting in UAAP Season 68, she was a bench player, quietly learning the ropes. But by the next season, her coach August Sta. Maria saw her potential and shifted her to opposite hitter — a position that would showcase her explosive attacks and fierce presence on the court.In UAAP Season 69, she helped lead UST to their 15th championship, marking her first taste of glory. But Aiza was just getting started. As team captain in Season 71, she guided the Tigresses to a bronze finish, personally earning the Best Attacker award. Then came Season 72, a season to remember, as UST claimed their 16th UAAP championship by toppling fierce rivals De La Salle University. Aiza’s leadership and skill were instrumental in this triumph.Her final collegiate season ended with a bittersweet silver finish after a hard-fought series against La Salle, but she was recognized as both the Best Scorer and Best Receiver — a testament to her all-around game.Aiza’s dominance extended beyond the UAAP. In the Shakey’s V-League, she led UST to five championship titles, including a historic three-peat. She earned accolades across the board: Best Server, Best Blocker, Conference MVP, and Finals MVP. She was the first Filipina to win both Finals and Season MVP twice in a single conference, a feat that cemented her legendary status in the league.

Jonah Sabete’s journey to becoming a standout volleyball player is one of determination, heart, and humble beginnings. Born on January 29, 1994, in the quiet town of Kabankalan, Negros Occidental, Jonah’s early life was far from the bright lights of major volleyball arenas. As a child, she was a marathon runner — a testament to her endurance and grit — but it wasn’t until a coach convinced her to try volleyball that her true path began to unfold.Moving away from her hometown, Jonah attended San Pedro High School in Hagonoy, Bulacan, where she started to carve her name in the sport. “Even if I had to study by myself, I did everything I could because I had a dream,” she once said, revealing the fire that kept her going despite challenges.Standing at 5-foot-6, Jonah wasn’t the tallest on the court, but she made up for it with incredible vertical leaps and fierce determination. Her powerful attacks and unwavering commitment made her a key player for Bulacan’s volleyball team in the Central Luzon Regional Athletic Association (CLRAA), where she proved that heart and skill can outmatch physical stature.Jonah’s college years were spent at Bulacan State University, proudly representing the BulSU Gold Gears. Her hard work and talent earned her numerous accolades: she was named to the 2014 Bulacan Collegiate Athletic Association (BCAA) Mythical Six, crowned MVP and Athlete of the Year in 2015, and repeated as Athlete of the Year in 2016. She also made the UCLAA Mythical Six, solidifying her status as one of Bulacan’s brightest volleyball stars.

Djanel Cheng, born on August 28, 1994, is a Filipino volleyball player serving as a setter for the Petro Gazz Angels in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL). Known for her smart playmaking and steady leadership on the court, Cheng has built a steady career across multiple local volleyball leagues. She is the sister of fellow volleyball player Desiree Cheng.Cheng began her collegiate volleyball career at De La Salle–College of Saint Benilde (CSB), where she played a key role in leading the Lady Blazers to their historic first NCAA women’s volleyball championship in Season 91.

Magnolia and NLEX continued their dominance in the PBA Season 49 Philippine Cup after defeating their respective opponents on Wednesday night, May 14, at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.The Hotshots maintained their grip on the top of the standings with a spotless 6-0 record after a commanding 117-92 win over the defending champions Meralco Bolts in the main game of the Wednesday double-header.Paul Lee led the charge for Magnolia, pouring in 27 points built on an efficient 4-of-5 shooting from the four-point territory and a perfect 6-of-6 from the free throw line.Ian Sangalang followed with 16 markers and nine boards, while Zavier Lucero and James Laput contributed 11 points and seven rebounds each. Rome Dela Rosa also chipped in 11 markers. Mark Barroca, Jerom Lastimosa, and Peter Alfaro III added nine markers apiece.The Bolts kept it close until Lee’s barrage of 4’s broke the game wide open in the closing minutes.Tensions flared late in the contest when Cliff Hodge’s hard tackle on Lucero halted the game, prompting a brief commotion that required Commissioner Willie Marcial to step in and restore order.Despite the heated moment, cooler heads prevailed. After the final buzzer, both teams shook hands, exchanged hugs, and shared smiles.