Manny Pacquiao draws comeback fight as Mario Barrios retains WBC welterweight title

That Pacquiao lasted the distance was a triumph in itself.

In the early rounds he displayed speed and agility that belied his years, putting together vintage combinations.

After a two-month training camp, Pacquiao appeared in better shape than in 2021, when he lost to Yordenis Ugas in his last fight.

Pacquiao landed 101 of his 577 punches (17.5%) compared to Barrios’ 120 from 658 (18.2%). Pacquiao landed 81 power punches 81 to Barrios’ 75.

Barrios’ age advantage started to tell as the fight wore on, with Pacquiao slowing down towards the end of 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.”

Pacquiao, who failed to win re-election as a senator in the Philippine governament in May, was granted a title shot because of the WBC’s rules on former champions coming out of retirement.

He said he will seek a different fight if a rematch with Barrios is not agreed.

“I only have two months’ training,” Pacquiao said.

“What I need to do is continue my training. In a championship fight like this, I should train four months, three months and a half, so that the fight would be good.

“But because of the election in the Philippines, I start late for my training, but it’s OK. I love the Filipino people and I love to give honour to my country.”