Manny Pacquiao (62-8-3, 39 KOs) and his trainer Freddie Roach believe they deserved a 12-round unanimous decision by an “8-4” score for their fight against WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios (29-2-2, 18 KOs) on Saturday night at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.
Roach Advocates Second Barrios Fight
Roach says he wants Pacquiao to be given an immediate rematch with Barrios. It’s unclear if that’ll happen. It would be more interesting to see someone else get a chance instead of Manny getting a chance after a chance to fight for that belt.
“After 12 rounds, I thought I won 8-4. That was my analysis of the fight. I was surprised by the announcement of it being a draw,” said Manny Pacquiao at the post-fight press conference, reacting to the 12-round draw against WBC champion Mario Barrios.
Pacquiao didn’t do enough to win. A draw was fair or a close win for Barrios because he was landing the better shots and did a good job of staying calm. We can’t have fighters getting repeated opportunities to fight for a title if they fail in their first attempt.
No More Title Freebies
If Pacquiao wants a second crack at a title, he should have to defeat these two top contenders: Shakhram Giyasov and Raul Curiel. Manny already got his unearned title shot against Barrios. Now, it’s time for him to earn a second chance by risking his hide like other contenders do in the welterweight division—no more freebies.
“The fans are happy with my performance. Don’t worry. Pacquiao is back. I’m still here. I did my best, and I really thought I won the fight,” said Manny.
It doesn’t matter that Pacquiao thought he won. The fact is, the judges didn’t think he won, and they’re the ones who did the scoring. He’s just going to have to live with it.
“I’m so thankful that I didn’t lose the fight. I got a draw. That’s fine, but most of the fans, they thought that I won the fight,” said Pacquiao.
Last Updated on 07/20/2025
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