Manny Pacquiao Reacts to Outcome of His Comeback Bout
MANNY PACQUIAO – The legendary Pacquiao returned from retirement to chase another title, but despite a strong showing, the bout ended in a controversial draw that left fans divided.
Manny Pacquiao’s much-awaited comeback to the boxing ring concluded in a controversial fashion after a thrilling 12-round clash with WBC welterweight titleholder Mario Barrios at the MGM Grand Garden Arena. At 46, Pacquiao aimed to become the oldest fighter to win a welterweight championship, and his performance exceeded expectations—but the judges didn’t award him the victory.
In a result that left many surprised, the match ended in a majority draw. One judge gave Barrios the edge at 115-113, while the remaining two judges scored the fight evenly at 114-114. With the draw, Barrios kept his championship belt and exited the arena still the reigning titleholder.
“I thought I won the fight,” Manny Pacquiao declared in the ring moments after the official decision, a statement that resonated with many of the 13,107 fans in attendance—most of whom were visibly disappointed by the outcome.
Many boxing commentators and journalists sided with Pacquiao. Dan Rafael scored the match 117-111 in Pacquiao’s favor, while Kevin Iole had it 116-112. The Associated Press and ESPN also gave the bout to Pacquiao at 115-113. Yahoo! Sports summed up the controversy with the headline, “Pacquiao robbed of making history.”
Still, Pacquiao remained respectful and composed despite the verdict. “I thought I won the fight. I mean, it’s (a) close fight. My opponent (was) very tough. Wonderful fight,” he said, acknowledging Barrios’ toughness. Recently honored with induction into the International Boxing Hall of Fame, Pacquiao suggested he might not be hanging up his gloves just yet. “I think so. I think so. God willing,” he said when asked about fighting again. “Don’t worry, the Pacman is back, and the journey will continue.”
Mario Barrios also felt he had done enough to win. “I feel like I won the fight. I felt I won. But I’m happy that I’m still holding on to my title,” he stated.
With both fighters showing interest in a second match, demand for a rematch is growing. “Of course I’d like a rematch. I want to leave a legacy and make the Filipino people proud,” Pacquiao said. Barrios responded, “I’ll do the rematch. Absolutely. This was huge for boxing. I’d love to do it again.”
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