Manny Pacquiao, the only boxer to win world titles in eight different weight classes, recently shared his opinion on the greatest NBA player of all time, firmly selecting Michael Jordan over LeBron James and Kobe Bryant. This declaration came amid his scheduled comeback fight in Las Vegas on July 19, 2025, where Pacquiao aims to regain glory in the welterweight division against Mario Barrios at the MGM Grand Garden Arena. The Filipino boxing legend’s stance on the NBA GOAT reignites discussions about LeBron James’ role in the NBA GOAT debate.

Pacquiao’s Clear Choice Among NBA Greats

While attending a press conference in Los Angeles for Tim Tszyu’s rematch against Sebastian Fundora, Manny Pacquiao was asked by World Star who he believed was the greatest basketball player of all time. Without hesitation, the 46-year-old replied, “Of course. Michael Jordan, forever.” Despite the admiration LeBron James and Kobe Bryant receive, Pacquiao’s pick remains resolute, reflecting Jordan’s lasting influence in sports history.

Michael Jordan’s dominance in the NBA is well documented, with six championships won without defeat in the Finals, five Most Valuable Player awards, ten scoring titles, and a Defensive Player of the Year accolade. His impact extended far beyond statistics: Jordan transformed basketball’s global appeal, setting a standard of competitiveness that remains unmatched. Still, debates continue about whether LeBron James, with his own remarkable list of achievements, might rival or surpass Jordan in GOAT status.

LeBron James has accumulated four NBA titles, four MVP honors, and is the league’s all-time leading scorer. At 40 years old, he stays active and continues to influence the sport. Kobe Bryant, who tragically passed away in 2020, also commands respect with five championships, an MVP award, and two Finals MVPs, supported by a devoted fan base that upholds his legacy.

Pacquiao’s Motivation Behind His Boxing Comeback

After retiring in 2021, Pacquiao expressed the emotional difficulty of stepping away from boxing. Reflecting on that time, he admitted,

“Never thought that this day would come.”

His love for the sport drew him back despite the skepticism surrounding his age and physical condition.

“I’m coming back because it’s my passion,”

he told reporters at a press conference in Las Vegas, emphasizing that the desire to compete still burns strongly within him.

Although Pacquiao’s return includes an exhibition fight in 2024 against former kickboxer Rukiya Anpo that showed signs of rust, it was clear that glory or financial gain were not the main goals. Instead, the thrill of fighting remains his driving force. He confessed,

“I’ve been gone for four years, but I always think about boxing. I really missed it.”

This motivation shapes his mindset going into the upcoming bout with Mario Barrios.

Ongoing Debate Over NBA GOAT: The Impact of Pacquiao’s Opinion

Pacquiao’s choice of Michael Jordan as the NBA’s greatest player contributes to the fervent debates among fans and analysts. Those who champion LeBron James argue that his longevity, versatility, and all-time scoring record make a compelling case for redefining the GOAT narrative. Kobe Bryant’s supporters maintain that his skill, championships, and work ethic place him firmly in the conversation despite his untimely death.

By weighing in, Pacquiao brings attention to the passionate discussions that surround basketball’s elite players, while also highlighting how sports legends from different arenas can cross paths in shared respect and analysis. His opinion may influence fans who look up to him not only as a boxing icon but also as a sports enthusiast with a strong voice.

Regardless of how the GOAT debate unfolds, Manny Pacquiao’s upcoming fight will draw global attention to his resilience and determination to succeed once more. As he challenges Mario Barrios in Las Vegas, many will be watching closely, curious if Pacquiao can recapture the elite form that made him a boxing legend. Meanwhile, the discourse around LeBron James’ role in the NBA GOAT discussion will remain a lively topic among the basketball community and beyond.