The MGM Grand Garden Arena echoed with boos as Manny Pacquiao’s long-awaited return to boxing after a four-year hiatus concluded in a contentious draw against Mario Barrios for the WBC welterweight title. The bout lasted the full twelve rounds, with Pacquiao demonstrating strong control in the mid-fight stages. However, the judges’ rulings varied: one favoured Barrios due to a robust closing performance, while the other two judges called it a draw, enabling Barrios to retain his title.
Following the fight, a disappointed Pacquiao expressed his belief that he had secured victory. “I thought I won the fight,” he stated, acknowledging Barrios as a formidable opponent. The decision sparked outrage, with former world champion Shawn Porter branding the judges’ performance as “incompetent” and echoing the sentiment that Pacquiao deserved the win. Many analysts and fans on social media shared similar views, leaning towards Pacquiao’s favour.
At 46, the Hall of Fame boxing legend remained optimistic, suggesting he might have more left in the tank, referring to his career as “god willing.” In a show of sportsmanship, Barrios indicated he would welcome a rematch with Pacquiao in the future.