Manny Pacquiao and Ruslan Provodnikov have been past their prime for more than a decade, but this spring, they will look to roll back the years.
Pacquiao, 47, is set to face Provodnikov, 42, in a 10-round welterweight exhibition boxing match on April 18 at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas it was announced Tuesday. A broadcaster for the bout has yet to be confirmed.
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Pacquiao (62-8-3, 39 KOs), a seven-division world champion, ended a four-year layoff this past July, fighting to a controversial draw with WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios. Going into the bout, many were against Pacquiao returning to the ring. After the fight, however, the majority felt Pacquiao had done enough to be crowned the second-oldest world champion in boxing history.
Provodnikov (25-5, 18 KOs) has not fought in a professional fight for almost 10 years. “The Russian Rocky” last laced up his gloves in June 2016, losing a unanimous decision to John Molina Jr. for a trinket belt. Provodnikov formerly held the WBO super lightweight title from 2013 until he lost it to Chris Algieri by split decision in 2014. Provodnikov also tasted defeat in a 2013 Fight of the Year contender with Tim Bradley Jr. for the WBO welterweight title.
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Said Pacquiao in a statement announcing the bout:
“I carry the Philippines with me every time I fight. The support from my country and from fans around the world continues to inspire me. Returning to Las Vegas means so much to me, and I’m excited to work with a team focused on creating a world-class experience for the fans. I’m coming back to give them a great fight — and I’m ready.”
One bout expected to feature on the undercard is the IBF featherweight title fight between Angelo Leo and Ra’eese Aleem, for which Manny Pacquiao Promotions won the purse bids earlier on Tuesday.
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