The Filipino multi-weight world champion was originally set to face Errol Spence Jr before the latter withdrew due to an eye injury. Ugas stepped in, putting his WBA Welterweight World Title on the line. The Cuban outlanded Pacquiao and won a unanimous decision with scores of 116–112, 116–112 and 115–113.

Manny Pacquiao has confirmed his widely-reported comeback, as he prepares to challenge Mario Barrios for the WBC welterweight title. Pacquiao, 46, will fight in a professional bout for the first time since 2021, having most recently competed in an exhibition match last July.