Former senator of the Philippines and professional boxer, Manny Pacquiao, says he wants a rematch against WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios after missing out on the title on his return to boxing.
The 46-year-old Filipino, returning to the ring four years after retiring, was held to a majority draw by 30-year-old Barrios at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas on July 19, 2025.
One judge scored the fight 115-113 in Barrios’ favour, while the other two scored it 114-114
Pacquiao, who has won 12 world titles across eight weight divisions, was ahead on the judges’ scorecards in the 10th round but lost the last three.
“I thought I won the fight. It was a close fight. My opponent was very tough. It was a wonderful fight,” Pacquiao said.
Asked if he wants a rematch, he said: “Yes, of course.”
Pacquiao became the oldest fighter to win the welterweight title when he did so at the age of 40 in 2019.
No fighter has won a major world title after being inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame; Pacquiao was given the honour in June 2025.
Pacquiao, who failed to win re-election as a senator in the Philippines government in May, was granted a title shot because of the WBC’s rules on former champions coming out of retirement.
He spent two months in a training camp before the fight.
“His stamina is crazy,” Barrios said.
“He’s still strong as hell and his timing is real. He’s still a very awkward fighter to try to figure out,” he added.
Watch the fight below:
PM/VPO
