Pacquiao’s Fountain of Youth Flows in Vegas: Controversial Draw with Barrios Fuels Rematch Demand

Las Vegas: A controversial majority draw denied Manny Pacquiao victory against Mario Barrios. Despite being 46, Pacquiao showed flashes of brilliance at the MGM Grand Garden Arena. [Image courtesy of Jinkee Pacquiao’s Facebook page.]

Pacquiao’s Fountain of Youth Flows in Vegas: Controversial Draw with Barrios Fuels Rematch Demand

By Thenationweek.com  

July 21, 2025

LAS VEGAS, Nevada – Defying Father Time with a performance that belied his 46 years, Manny Pacquiao battled WBC Welterweight Champion Mario Barrios to a controversial majority draw Saturday night at the MGM Grand Garden Arena.

While Sebastian Fundora’s dominant TKO victory over Tim Tszyu provided a brutal spectacle in the co-main event, it was Pacquiao’s return to the ring after nearly a four-year hiatus that captivated the boxing world, igniting a firestorm of debate over the judges’ verdict.

The scoring – one judge favoring Barrios 115-113, the other two deadlocked at 114-114 – allowed Barrios to retain his title but left a lingering sense of injustice in the air.

Many observers felt Pacquiao’s relentless pressure and superior ring generalship warranted a victory, setting the stage for what promises to be a lucrative and highly anticipated rematch.

“I thought I won the fight,” Pacquiao conceded, acknowledging the close nature of the contest.

“My opponent [was] very tough… Wonderful fight.”

Barrios, while maintaining he believed he had done enough to win, offered a respectful assessment of his legendary opponent.

“I thought I pulled it out. But I still tip my hat to Manny. It was an honor to share the ring with him.”

Pacquiao’s Agelessness: Barrios Left Stunned

The most compelling narrative of the night was Pacquiao’s remarkable condition.

Barrios, a full 16 years younger, admitted to being caught off guard by the Filipino icon’s stamina and enduring power.

“It was crazy,” Barrios confessed. “His stamina… He could still crack. He’s still strong as hell. And, you know, his timing is real and everything. He was still a very awkward fighter to try to figure out.”

Pacquiao, who last graced the ring in 2021 against Yordenis Ugas, attributed his performance to unwavering discipline and a grueling training regimen.

The question now is, can he maintain this level of performance?

Rematch: A Near Certainty

Throughout the fight, Barrios’ corner urged him to capitalize on Pacquiao’s age, but the champion found the task far more challenging than anticipated.

Pacquiao’s movement and bursts of speed proved difficult to contain.

“That was the plan in the first place coming in here, try to make him feel old,” Barrios admitted.

“But, man, he has such good legs; he has a lot in the tank. And … he still has a lot of fight left in him.”

When pressed about a potential rematch, Barrios responded without hesitation, “Absolutely.”

Pacquiao echoed the sentiment, stating, “I think so. I think so. God willing.”

The demand for a second clash is palpable, promising another night of high-stakes action and potentially even greater financial rewards.

Fight Highlights:

• Early Rounds (1-4):

Barrios, utilizing his size and reach advantage, established his jab, keeping Pacquiao at bay. The Filipino icon struggled initially to close the distance and impose his will.

• Middle Rounds (5-8): 

Pacquiao found his rhythm, landing stinging combinations to both the body and head. Flashes of his signature speed ignited the crowd as he began to dictate the pace.

• Later Rounds (9-12):  

Pacquiao appeared to surge in the later rounds, aggressively pursuing Barrios and landing impactful blows. However, Barrios responded with his own powerful shots, contributing to the fight’s thrilling and controversial conclusion.

Fundora – Tszyu Fight

In the co-main event, Sebastian Fundora delivered a career-defining performance, stopping Tim Tszyu in a bloody and brutal super welterweight contest. The fight was halted in the seventh round due to a severe cut over Tszyu’s right eye.

A Lucrative Return for Pacquiao

Regardless of the draw, Pacquiao’s return to boxing was a resounding financial success. Initial reports suggest he stands to earn an estimated $12 million (approximately P685 million) for his comeback fight, a testament to his enduring global appeal. With projected pay-per-view revenue factored in, Pacquiao’s total earnings could potentially exceed P1 billion.

While Pacquiao has repeatedly emphasized his love for the sport as the primary motivation, the substantial payday undoubtedly adds to the allure of a potential rematch.

The Future: Pacquiao’s Next Move

The boxing world now waits with bated breath. Will Pacquiao pursue a rematch with Barrios? Will he target another title opportunity? Or will he finally decide to hang up his gloves, leaving behind a legacy unmatched in the sport’s history?

Whatever his decision, Manny Pacquiao has once again proven that he remains a force to reckon with, a living legend who continues to defy expectations.