LONDON (29 Oct) – Filipino superstar Manny Pacquiao’s return to the ring against the unyielding Brandon Rios on November 23rd will be brought to UK fight fans live and exclusive on BoxNation (Sky Ch.437/Virgin Ch.546).
The eagerly anticipated matchup which sees Pacquiao make his first return to the ring since his devastating knockout loss to Juan Manuel Marquez will pit him against one of boxing’s most relentless warriors in the shape of Rios, in a bout certain to produce fireworks.
The 12-round welterweight rumble, taking place at The Venetian’s CotaiArena in Macao, China represents a sink or swim matchup for both men who go into the fight with everything on the line as they look to bounce back in spectacular fashion following their recent defeats.
Despite his status as a global boxing icon and being regarded as the ‘Fighter of the Decade’, Pacquiao, will not have it all his own way when he steps in against a former world champion in Rios, famed for his never-say-die attitude and outspoken nature.
The clash will also see the WBO international welterweight title up for grabs, in the biggest fight in the world that weekend.
“Brandon Rios is the biggest test out there for me and I will be ready to meet the challenge,” said Pacquiao. “I have heard what Brandon has been saying. If he fights as well as he boasts it will be a great fight for us and the fans.”
“Out with the old, in with the new . . . and I’m the new! Manny, this is my time,” said Rios.
Jim McMunn, General Manager of BoxNation, said: “We are delighted to continue bringing British fight fans the best possible matchups out there. Anyone who knows boxing knows that this fight is going to be an explosive all-action affair, with two of the most exciting boxers in the sport today. It is such an intriguing fight as we all want to see if Pacquiao can throw his name back into the pound-for-pound mix or if a new superstar will be born in Rios. BoxNation is committed to deliver the best bouts out there at great value to our customers and it’s fantastic we have managed to secure yet another ‘Fight of the Year’ candidate in the form of Pacquiao-Rios.”