Manny Pacquiao impresses with strong comeback – but Marios Barrios retains WBC title after hard-fought draw.
In a highly dramatic fight, boxing legend Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao fought to a draw against reigning WBC welterweight champion Mario “El Azteca” Barrios at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas on Saturday night. The clash, the main event of a PBC pay-per-view event on Prime Video, ended in a majority draw after 12 intense rounds. Two judges scored the fight 114-114, while the third scored it 115-113 in Barrios’ favor.
Pacquiao, who at the age of 46 wanted to break the record as the oldest welterweight world champion in boxing history, showed enormous ring intelligence and explosiveness despite the long break. He shook the arena in round eight when he turned up the heat with a series of hard left hooks just before the bell and flashed his legendary killer instinct. But Barrios showed stamina, fought his way back and, according to the judges, secured the last three rounds to defend his belt.
“I thought I won the fight,” said Pacquiao (62-8-3, 39 knockouts). “It was a close fight. Mario was very tough. I worked hard and showed discipline. My body is always in shape so I can deliver fights like this.” Barrios (29-2-2, 18 knockouts) paid tribute to his opponent: “It was an honor to share the ring with a legend like Manny. This was the biggest event of my career. We gave it our all and I would do it again in a heartbeat.” Both fighters signaled their interest in a rematch after the final bell.
“I have to prepare longer for a title fight,” explained Pacquiao, who joined the training camp later due to political commitments. “Of course I want a rematch. I want to leave a legacy and make my people proud.” Barrios agreed: “I’m in. Absolutely. That was huge for boxing. I would be proud to do it again.”
With this electrifying fight, Pacquiao once again proved that his name continues to resonate among the welterweight elite – and fans can look forward to a possible second chapter against Barrios.