Manny Pacquiao's comeback fight against Mario Barrios ended in a draw. The 46-year-old Filipino legend went toe-to-toe with the current WBC welterweight champion at the MGM Grand Casino, leaving fans and experts divided over the outcome.
The judges couldn't separate the two fighters after 12 rounds. Two scorecards read 114-114, while one judge gave it to Pacquiao 115-113, resulting in a majority draw. This verdict sparked heated debates online, with many feeling Pacquiao deserved the win.
Despite being 16 years older than his opponent, Pacquiao showed he still has plenty of fight left in him. He took the initiative in each round, exchanging blows with Barrios. The younger champion seemed more conservative, often on the defensive against Pacquiao's attacks.
TV broadcasts and analysts unofficially scored the fight in Pacquiao's favor, giving him at least 8 of the 12 rounds. However, these unofficial scorecards don't count towards the final decision.
"I should have won the fight," Pacquiao said after the bout. "But I respect the final verdict."
The draw means Pacquiao missed out on becoming the second oldest boxer to win a world title. It's also his first draw since 2004 when he faced Juan Manuel Marquez.
For Barrios, he keeps his WBC welterweight belt. His next challenger will be announced in the coming months, with a potential rematch against Pacquiao on the cards.
The fight adds another chapter to Pacquiao's storied career. His record now stands at 62 wins (39 by knockout), 8 losses, and 3 draws. Barrios, meanwhile, moves to 29 wins, 2 losses, and 2 draws.
Pacquiao confirmed he'll continue his professional boxing career, proving age is just a number for the man they call "Pacman".
