Manny Pacquiao's return to the ring at the weekend after a four-year hiatus marked the latest example of a boxer well past his prime who could not resist the temptation of the squared circle and a chance to add to his competitive legacy.

At 46 years old, Manny Pacquiao is lacing up the gloves again. This weekend, he steps into the ring against 30-year-old Mario Barrios for the interim WBC title. During his media rounds, the Filipino legend decided to settle a debate that has recently heated up with back-and-forth comments between the two camps: prime Floyd Mayweather vs.

Reflecting on Pacquiao’s legendary career and risks of his comeback at 46, this piece highlights the bittersweet hope and danger in his return.