LAS VEGAS — Manny Pacquiao and Mario Barrios fought to a majority draw on Sunday night at the MGM Grand Garden Arena, as judges scored 115–113 for Barrios and 114–114 on two other scorecards, allowing Barrios to retain his WBC welterweight title.
Pacquiao, aged 46, delivered a strong performance throughout the bout, outworking Barrios in the middle rounds, though the champion rallied in the final three rounds to force the draw. Punch statistics showed Barrios landed more total punches and jabs, while Pacquiao delivered slightly more power punches.
Experts and fans widely debated the scoring. Former world champions and boxing analysts expressed disbelief at the outcome, with many arguing that Pacquiao had done enough to win — especially given his strong middle-round dominance. Keith Thurman, a former opponent of Pacquiao’s, predicted the majority draw, citing the judges’ tendencies in Las Vegas.
Both fighters have left open the possibility of a rematch. Pacquiao said afterward, “I thought I won the fight,” and Barrios expressed respect for the legend while keeping the door open for another clash.
The bout marked Pacquiao’s return to the ring after his 2021 loss and Hall of Fame induction, reigniting discussions about age, legacy, and judging integrity in boxing.
