Manny Pacquiao made a remarkable return to the boxing ring after nearly four years, but despite a strong performance, he and Mario Barrios fought to a majority draw in a 12-round welterweight bout on July 19.
The judges scored the fight 115-113 in favor of Barrios, and two other judges scored it 114-114, leading to a split decision that allowed Barrios to retain his WBC welterweight title.
The Fight
While the crowd was clearly disappointed, with some booing the decision, Pacquiao seemed content with his effort. “I thought I won the fight,” Pacquiao stated, reflecting on a match that saw him square off against a younger, stronger fighter. Pacquiao, at 46, was facing 30-year-old Barrios, who had height and youth on his side.
Despite his age, Pacquiao showed impressive stamina, especially considering it was his first fight since a 2021 loss to Yordenis Ugas. Barrios, however, noted how surprised he was at Pacquiao’s energy, saying, “It was crazy. His stamina… he’s still strong as hell.”
Pacquiao’s conditioning and timing impressed many, but Barrios proved to be the better fighter in the later rounds, particularly after his corner urged him to press the action.
The Results of the Fight
Manny Pacquiao vs Mario Barrios: Majority Draw
Scores: 115-113 (Barrios), 114-114 (two judges)
Barrios retains his WBC welterweight title.
Round-by-Round Breakdown
Round 1:
Barrios’ size advantage was clear early on. He controlled the pace with his jab, while Pacquiao struggled to find his rhythm.
Score: Barrios 10, Pacquiao 9
Round 2:
Barrios kept Pacquiao at bay with his jab, while Pacquiao had some moments but was less active.
Score: Barrios 20, Pacquiao 18
Round 3:
Pacquiao started to engage more but seemed affected by some low blows from Barrios.
Score: Barrios 30, Pacquiao 27
Round 4:
Pacquiao fought hard but could not avoid Barrios’ superior reach and jabs.
Score: Barrios 40, Pacquiao 36
Round 5:
Pacquiao showed some vintage moves, landing solid shots to Barrios’ body.
Score: Barrios 49, Pacquiao 46
Round 6:
Pacquiao displayed more of his old skills, landing punches to both the body and head, but Barrios was still in control.
Score: Barrios 58, Pacquiao 56
Round 7:
Barrios seemed to lose some steam as Pacquiao came back strong, landing combinations.
Score: Barrios 67, Pacquiao 66
Round 8:
Pacquiao showed flashes of his former self, landing several powerful shots.
Score: Barrios 76, Pacquiao 76
Round 9:
Pacquiao surged ahead with aggressive counters, putting pressure on Barrios.
Score: Pacquiao 86, Barrios 85
Round 10:
Both fighters went toe-to-toe in an intense exchange, with Pacquiao showing heart despite being slightly behind.
Score: Pacquiao 96, Barrios 94
Round 11:
A tough exchange of punches, but Pacquiao’s quickness and counter-punching helped him land more shots.
Score: Pacquiao 105, Barrios 104
Round 12:
Barrios ended the fight strong, landing jarring right hands, while Pacquiao finished the fight fighting back with everything he had.
Score: Pacquiao 114, Barrios 114
What’s Next for Manny Pacquiao?
After the fight, Pacquiao was asked about his future. “I think so. I think so. God willing,” Pacquiao said when asked about continuing to fight. While the result wasn’t the victory he hoped for, the 46-year-old boxer proved he still has plenty left in the tank. Mario Barrios, too, showed respect for Pacquiao, stating, “It was an honor to share the ring with him.”
The Undercard Highlights
Sebastian Fundora defeated Tim Tszyu by TKO in the super-welterweight bout, showing his dominance in the division. Isaac Cruz triumphed over Omar Salcido by unanimous decision, while Brandon Figueroa claimed a hard-fought win over Joet Gonzalez by unanimous decision.
These fighters showcased their talents and set the stage for more exciting bouts in the future.
