As of 07:22 PM +07 on Sunday, July 20, 2025, the boxing world remains abuzz following the controversial majority draw between Manny Pacquiao and Mario Barrios at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas on July 19. The 46-year-old Filipino legend has broken his silence, addressing the outcome and expressing his belief that he deserved the victory, in a statement that has reignited debates across the globe.

The Fight Recap

Pacquiao, returning to the ring after a near-four-year hiatus, faced WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios in a highly anticipated bout. The fight showcased Pacquiao’s remarkable speed and resilience, with the former eight-division champion landing sharp combinations and thrilling the sold-out crowd. Barrios, 30, relied on his jab and power to counter, particularly dominating the later rounds. The judges’ scores—115-113 for Barrios, 114-114, and 114-114—resulted in a majority draw, allowing Barrios to retain his title. Pacquiao’s performance nearly made him the second-oldest fighter to win a major world title, a record he set at 40.

Initial reports, including those from Yahoo Sports and The Washington Post, highlighted Pacquiao’s early lead and Barrios’ late surge, with some unofficial scorecards favoring Pacquiao. However, the official decision has sparked widespread controversy, with fans and analysts questioning the judges’ consistency.

Pacquiao’s Reaction

In his first public statement since the fight, released via a video message at 06:45 PM +07, Pacquiao expressed disappointment but maintained a gracious tone. “I thought I won the fight,” he said. “It was a close fight. My opponent was very tough. It was a wonderful fight.” He attributed his stamina to “hard work and discipline,” noting his limited two-month training camp. Pacquiao also hinted at a potential rematch, stating, “I think so, I think so. God willing,” a sentiment echoed by Barrios, who called it “an absolute honor” to share the ring and expressed openness to a second bout.

Posts found on X reflect a split in opinion, with many fans agreeing with Pacquiao’s assessment, while others argue Barrios’ late-round dominance justified the draw. The sentiment underscores the fight’s competitiveness, though no definitive evidence supports overturning the result.

Fact-Checking the Controversy

Claims of a robbery have circulated, with some fans and unofficial scorers, like @bredisadames on X, scoring it 116-112 for Pacquiao. However, a review of round-by-round updates from sources like The Guardian and Bad Left Hook shows a tight contest, with Barrios winning the final round on all cards, a critical factor in the draw. Sporting News and CBSSports.com noted Pacquiao’s early activity but acknowledged Barrios’ cleaner work in close rounds. While Pacquiao’s performance defied his age, the judges’ decision aligns with the fight’s ebb and flow, though the 115-113 score for Barrios raises eyebrows given the even 114-114 tallies.

Financial reports suggesting Pacquiao earned up to $5 million (Al Jazeera) and Barrios $1 million remain unverified by official sources, but they align with past payouts for high-profile bouts. No evidence supports allegations of foul play in the scoring, though the controversy mirrors past disputed decisions in boxing.

What This Means

Pacquiao’s comments have fueled speculation about his future. At 46, his ability to compete at this level suggests he could pursue another title run, potentially against Barrios or other contenders. The draw keeps Barrios’ title intact but tarnishes his victory with an asterisk, prompting calls for a rematch to settle the score. The boxing community, as seen in trending discussions on X, is divided, with some hailing Pacquiao’s comeback and others defending the judges.

As the dust settles, Pacquiao’s legacy remains untarnished, his voice adding a new chapter to a storied career. The next move—whether retirement, a rematch, or a new challenge—hangs in the balance, with the world eagerly awaiting his decision.