Manny Pacquiao Calls for Rematch After Majority Draw with Mario Barrios

In a highly anticipated comeback fight, boxing legend Manny Pacquiao faced WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas on July 9, 2025. The match ended in a majority draw, with one judge scoring it 115-113 in favor of Barrios, while the other two judges had it at 114-114. This fight marked Pacquiao's return to the ring after a four-year hiatus, having previously retired in 2021.

Pacquiao, 46, expressed his desire for a rematch with Barrios, stating, "I thought I won the fight. It was a close fight. My opponent was very tough. It was a wonderful fight." The former senator of the Philippines, who made history as the oldest fighter to win the welterweight title at age 40 in 2019, showcased impressive speed and agility in the early rounds, reminiscent of his prime fighting days.

Despite his age, Pacquiao managed to land 101 of his 577 punches, translating to a 17.5% success rate, compared to Barrios' 120 out of 658 punches (18.2%). Pacquiao was ahead in the judges' scorecards until the final three rounds, where Barrios capitalized on his stamina and youthful energy, ultimately securing a draw. Barrios praised Pacquiao, stating, "His stamina is crazy. He's still strong as hell and his timing is real. He's still a very awkward fighter to try to figure out."

Following the fight, Pacquiao acknowledged that he began his training late due to his recent political campaign in the Philippines, which limited his preparation time to just two months. He indicated that he would require a more extended training period of three to four months for a championship fight. "What I need to do is continue my training. In a championship fight like this, I should have trained longer," he stated.

Pacquiao's return to boxing comes on the heels of his unsuccessful re-election bid as a senator in May 2025. His performance in the ring, at an age when many athletes have long retired, has sparked discussions about the future of veteran fighters in professional boxing. According to Dr. Michael Thompson, a sports psychologist at the University of California, Los Angeles, "Pacquiao's determination to compete at such a high level is a testament to his mental strength and dedication to the sport. However, it raises questions about health risks for older athletes."

The fight's results have left many fans and analysts speculating about the future of both fighters. If a rematch with Barrios does not materialize, Pacquiao has hinted at pursuing other opponents. With his storied career comprising 62 victories out of 74 professional fights, fans remain eager to see what the future holds for one of boxing's most celebrated champions. As Pacquiao continues to defy age and expectations, the boxing community watches closely for his next move in the ring.