Pacquiao: Vargas fight is on

MANILA, Philippines – Manny Pacquiao has confirmed that his planned fight with WBO welterweight champion Jessie Vargas is a go.

“Yes, the fight is on. I have agreed to a November 5 fight with reigning WBO welterweight champion Jessie Vargas,” Pacquiao said in a statement.

The incumbent senator has only been out of the ring for four months since defeating Timothy Bradley in April before announcing his retirement.

Pacquiao, however, said he misses the sport that catapulted him to world fame.

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

He pointed out that uses the millions he earns in boxing matches to help his family and countrymen.

“Boxing is my main source of income. I can’t rely on my salary as public official,” Pacquiao added.

“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,” he continued.

Top Rank Inc. chief Bob Arum earlier said he is visiting the Philippines soon to discuss Pacquiao’s ring return, which will reportedly be staged at the Thomas and Mack Center in Las Vegas.

Pacquiao reiterated that his preparations for the Vargas fight will not go in conflict with his duties as a senator

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

Also promoted by Top Rank, Vargas (27-1, with 10 KOs) has interestingly lost to Bradley and is perceive to be the easier path for Pacquiao, who has discounted a showdown with rising star Terence Crawford. - Dino Maragay