Brian Norman Jr would take the 'opportunity' to fight Manny Pacquiao

Ahead of his upcoming clash with Jin Sasaki, Brian Norman Jr has declared that he would take the 'opportunity' to fight Manny Pacquiao.

Aged 24, Brian Norman Jr boasts an impressive 27-0 record, having knocked out 21 of his opponents.

He will defend his WBO welterweight title in opponent Jin Sasaki’s home nation of Japan on Thursday 19th June, and while he can’t take the clash lightly, he has his eyes set on what’s next to come.

Speaking to The Ring, Norman Jr discussed the objective of winning the WBC strap, currently owned by Mario Barrios.

He said: “Actually, that’s, real deal, the main fight I want simply because of that WBC belt.

And if (Manny) Pacquiao wins it, that makes it even better because that’s a legend in the game. That WBC belt is actually my main goal.

- Brian Norman Jr, The Ring

After approximately four years out of the ring, Pacquiao is set to fight Barrios for the WBC welterweight title on 20th July, in a return that very few anticipated.

Widely regarded as one of the greatest boxers to grace the sport, the 46 year old fell to a unanimous decision defeat in his last professional boxing outing in 2021, losing to late replacement Yordenis Ugas.

Norman Jr expressed his shock at the homecoming of Pacquiao.

He added: “I was very surprised. He’s 46 years old, but I know for a fact it’s very, very hard to sleep that competitive nature in you. Just a few years ago, he beat the man, ‘One Time’ Keith Thurman. So, I’m pretty sure he’s like, ‘I know I got at least a little bit more left.’

"I understand where he’s coming from, but if I get that opportunity, respectfully, I’ve got to do him like he did Oscar De La Hoya.”

Norman Jr refused to rule out Pacquiao ahead of his clash with Barrios.

“Manny Pacquiao is Manny Pacquiao. Anything is possible.”

Ellis Statham

• Manny Pacquaio
• Mario Barrios v Manny Pacquaio
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