Manny Pacquiao Secures Unexpected Draw Against Mario Barrios, Maintaining WBC Welterweight Title
Paris, France – July 20, 2025 – In a sensational turn of events that defied expectations, Filipino boxing icon Manny Pacquiao, at the age of 46, fought his way to an unexpected draw against the formidable American champion Mario Barrios. The highly anticipated bout saw Barrios successfully retain his WBC Welterweight title, but it was Pacquiao’s tenacious performance that captured the hearts and minds of boxing enthusiasts worldwide.
The fight, held yesterday evening, was a testament to Pacquiao’s enduring legacy and remarkable physical conditioning. Despite the significant age difference and Barrios’ status as the reigning champion, Pacquiao demonstrated flashes of his former brilliance, engaging in a spirited contest that kept spectators on the edge of their seats.
From the opening bell, Barrios, known for his power and aggressive style, pressed forward, aiming to assert his dominance. However, Pacquiao, drawing upon decades of experience, employed his signature speed and strategic footwork to evade and counter. The early rounds were a tactical battle, with both fighters gauging each other’s strengths and weaknesses.
As the fight progressed, Pacquiao’s resilience became increasingly evident. He absorbed Barrios’ powerful shots and responded with well-timed combinations, showcasing the precision that has defined his illustrious career. While Barrios landed significant blows, Pacquiao’s ability to weather the storm and continue fighting proved that his fighting spirit remained undimmed.
The later rounds were particularly dramatic. Both fighters displayed immense determination, knowing that the outcome was far from decided. Pacquiao, in particular, dug deep, finding an extra gear to mount impressive offensive surges that seemed to surprise the younger champion. His ability to land clean punches and control the pace at crucial moments earned him significant points and shifted the momentum in his favor at times.
Ultimately, the judges’ scorecards reflected the closely contested nature of the bout. While the exact details of the scoring were not immediately available, the announcement of a draw was met with a mix of surprise and admiration. Mario Barrios successfully defended his WBC Welterweight title, a testament to his skill and preparation, but the draw against a legendary fighter like Pacquiao is a significant achievement for the American.
For Manny Pacquiao, this performance is a remarkable display of his enduring commitment to the sport. At 46, to compete at such a high level against a reigning world champion is an inspiration. While he may not have secured the victory he aimed for, his ability to earn a draw speaks volumes about his unparalleled talent, dedication, and the fighting spirit that has cemented his status as one of the greatest boxers of all time. The boxing world will undoubtedly continue to talk about this captivating encounter for a long time to come.
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France Info published ‘Boxe : la légende philippine de 46 ans Manny Pacquiao arrache un nul inespéré face à l’Américain Mario Barrios qui conserve son titre WBC des welters’ at 2025-07-20 08:53. Please write a detailed article about this news in a polite tone with relevant information. Please reply in English with the article only.