Manny Pacquiao's First Post After Majority Draw in Mario Barrios Fight

The 12-round match saw two judges score it 114-114, while one gave Barrios a slight edge at 115-113. Though many fans expected a clear winner, the fight ended with no title change, allowing Barrios to keep the WBC belt.

Pacquiao, who once again received loud cheers from a packed arena, admitted that he initially believed he had done enough to win. 

“I thought I won the fight,” he said after the bout. “It was a close fight. My opponent was very tough.”

Despite his age, Pacquiao impressed both fans and critics with his speed and stamina. Barrios, 16 years younger, later praised the eight-division champion’s power and timing.

“That old man is strong as [explicit]… Pacquiao can definitely crack,” he said, comparing his punching strength to that of hard-hitting boxer Gervonta “Tank” Davis.

The morning after the fight, Pacquiao attended a Sunday service with fans at the MGM Grand. Appearing calm and smiling, he spoke openly about the result. 

“I know a lot of people were disappointed,” he said. “But I’m happy with my performance.”

For now, Pacquiao will rest with his family in Los Angeles before returning to the Philippines in August. Whether or not he fights again, he reminded the world why he’s still a beloved figure in boxing.