Manny Pacquiao Draws Against Mario Barrios in Return Fight

Manny Pacquiao’s highly anticipated return to boxing culminated in a draw against defending WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios on July 19, 2024, in Las Vegas. At the age of 46, the Filipino icon faced the challenge of a younger opponent after a four-year hiatus from the sport. Despite dominating several rounds, Pacquiao could not secure a victory, with one judge scoring the match 115-113 in favor of Barrios, while the other two judges recorded 114-114.

The atmosphere at the MGM Grand Garden Arena was electric as fans passionately supported Pacquiao throughout the match. Initially, it appeared that he might script a remarkable chapter in his storied career, showcasing his experience and skill to frustrate Barrios. However, Barrios mounted a strong comeback in the final three rounds, earning the judges’ favor in those closing moments to maintain his title.

“I thought I won the fight,” said Pacquiao after the match. “It was a close fight. My opponent was very tough. But it was a wonderful fight.” He acknowledged the challenge posed by Barrios, who threw effective combinations and defended well throughout the contest.

Barrios, who is 30 years old, expressed his pride in sharing the ring with such a legendary figure. “I thought I pulled it out,” he said. “But I still tip my hat to Manny. It was an honour to share the ring with him, somebody with so much experience who has accomplished so much in this sport.” He also praised Pacquiao’s enduring stamina and skill, noting, “His timing, his rhythm, everything. He was still a very awkward fighter to figure out.”

Fight Dynamics and Future Prospects

As the fight progressed, Barrios realized the need to increase his work rate to secure a favorable outcome. “I knew I had to step it up to try to solidify a win,” he admitted. His strategy paid off, as he pressed Pacquiao in those crucial rounds, managing to connect with several impactful jabs.

Pacquiao expressed interest in continuing his boxing career and indicated his openness to a rematch with Barrios. “Of course, of course,” he responded when asked about the possibility of fighting Barrios again. “That’s the only legacy that I can leave behind – to give inspiration to the Filipino people and to be proud wherever you are.”

Both fighters left the arena with mutual respect, as Barrios echoed Pacquiao’s sentiments about a potential rematch. “I would love to do it again,” he stated during a post-fight interview.

The draw marks a significant moment in Pacquiao’s career, which has seen him rise to fame as an eight-division champion and one of the sport’s most revered figures. Despite being regarded as an underdog against the taller and younger Barrios, Pacquiao demonstrated his craft by landing crisp combinations and maintaining a higher activity level during the earlier rounds.

While Pacquiao’s last victory came in 2019, his performance on Saturday showcased that he still possesses the ability to compete at a high level. Fans and analysts alike are left contemplating the implications of this match and the potential for a thrilling rematch between these two fighters in the future.