Pacman returns to ring vs Vargas on November 5

MANILA, Philippines – Sen. Manny Pacquiao has confirmed his scheduled comeback fight against reigning World Boxing Organization welterweight titleholder Jessie Vargas on Nov. 5 in Las Vegas.

Pacquiao made the confirmation after a two-hour meeting with Top Rank big boss Bob Arum Tuesday night at Shangri-La Makati.

“Yes, the fight is on,” he said. “I have agreed to a Nov. 5 fight with reigning WBO welterweight champion Jessie Vargas.”

Also at the meeting were Pacquiao’s wife Jinkee and Canadian adviser Michael Koncz.

Vargas, an American, has a 27-1 win-loss record with 10 of his victories by knockout.

Koncz said the press tour for the fight would be held on Sept. 8-10 in Los Angeles, California, when Congress is still in session.

As a member of the 16th Congress, Pacquiao had incurred the second largest number of absences from the House of Representatives after Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo who was then under hospital detention.

Pacquiao promised he would have perfect attendance in the 17th Congress. But he said yesterday he had to earn a living, and a senator’s salary was not enough to sustain him.

“Promotion of the fight will be held only in Los Angeles,” Koncz said. “After that, Senator Pacquiao and his team will go back home to attend to his Senate duties.” 

Koncz described the meeting between Arum and Pacquiao as “smooth and cordial.”

The promoter and the boxer will meet again “soon” for the contract signing, he added.

Pacquiao admitted he is excited to fight again in the ring.

“Boxing is my passion,” he said. “I miss what I’d been doing inside the gym and atop the ring.”

Pacquiao assured the nation his training will not affect his duties as a senator.

“My entire training camp will be held here in the Philippines so I can attend to my legislative work,” he said. “This is my campaign promise and I’m determined to keep it.”

Pacquiao said he has to fight again to earn a living.

“Boxing is my main source of income,” he said.

“I can’t rely on my salary as public official. I’m helping the family of my wife and my own family, as well. Many people also come to me to ask for help and I just couldn’t ignore them.”