Morales Sends Message to Pacquiao Over Barrios Fight | Turki Alalshikh Challenges Boxer | Munguia Under VADA Testing
The world of boxing is heating up as multiple storylines converge in the lead-up to a potentially explosive summer. In a span of just a few days, Erik Morales, Turki Alalshikh, and Jaime Munguia have all made headlines—each adding new energy and controversy to the sport.
From Manny Pacquiao’s rumored return against Mario Barrios, to calls for fair drug testing, and even Saudi Arabia’s growing influence on match-making, boxing fans have plenty to talk about.
Erik Morales Sends Message to Pacquiao Over Barrios Bout
Boxing legend Erik “El Terrible” Morales, who famously shared a trilogy of wars with Manny Pacquiao, has weighed in on Pacquiao’s rumored comeback fight against WBC interim welterweight champion Mario Barrios.
Speaking in a recent interview, Morales expressed concern—but also pride.
“Manny is a warrior. But at this point, it’s no longer about proving anything. Barrios is young, strong, and active. If Pacquiao wants to return, I hope he’s doing it for the right reasons,” Morales said.
Barrios recently dominated Yordenis Ugas and has youth, size, and momentum on his side. Pacquiao, now 45, hasn’t fought since losing to Ugas in 2021.
“If anyone can defy time, it’s Manny,” Morales added, “but time is still undefeated.”
Turki Alalshikh Issues Challenge to “Unnamed Boxer”
Saudi boxing powerbroker Turki Alalshikh, who has been instrumental in organizing blockbuster fights like Fury vs. Usyk and the upcoming Riyadh Season cards, made waves on social media after calling out an “unnamed boxer” and daring him to step up for a global mega-event.
“If you’re a real champion, stop talking. Accept the fight. We’ll host it in Riyadh. Biggest stage. Biggest purse,” Alalshikh wrote.
While he didn’t name names, fans suspect the challenge was directed at either Gervonta “Tank” Davis or Teofimo Lopez, both of whom have been linked to Saudi-hosted events in recent weeks.
Turki’s message is clear: if you want the biggest fights, you need to come to Saudi Arabia—and be ready to back up your words.
Munguia Undergoes VADA Testing Ahead of Next Fight
Fresh off his thrilling performance against Canelo Alvarez, Jaime Munguia is staying in the spotlight—this time for his decision to voluntarily enroll in VADA (Voluntary Anti-Doping Association) testing ahead of his next bout.
The move comes amid growing scrutiny in boxing around performance-enhancing drug use. Munguia’s camp says the decision is about “transparency, honor, and setting an example.”
“We want clean fights. No excuses. Jaime wants to be a champion the right way,” said a spokesperson from his team.
No opponent has been officially announced yet, but speculation is swirling around a potential showdown with David Benavidez or a rematch with Canelo in early 2025.
Final Word
From Morales’ heartfelt message to Pacquiao, to Turki Alalshikh shaking the global boxing scene, and Munguia taking a stand for clean competition—this week proves that boxing is more than just knockouts. It’s legacy, politics, pride, and principle.
Whether it’s in the ring or behind the scenes, the fight never stops.
