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Manny Pacquiao Demands Barrios Rematch After Draw. Manny Pacquiao has expressed frustration over his controversial draw with Mario Barrios and now wants a rematch. The boxing legend admitted he underestimated the bout and says he’ll train harder to prove his legacy once more.
Manny Pacquiao Wants Rematch with Mario Barrios After Controversial Draw “I Need to Train Longer”
Boxing legend Manny Pacquiao, one of the sport’s most iconic fighters, has stirred headlines once again. Following a controversial draw against Mario Barrios, Pacquiao made it clear he wants a rematch, stating bluntly that he underestimated the preparation needed and now acknowledges the need to train longer.
This declaration comes amid a mixed reaction from fans and analysts over the outcome of the fight a bout that was supposed to mark a triumphant return or graceful closure to the Filipino senator’s boxing career. Instead, it sparked a fresh debate and perhaps a new chapter.
The Controversial Draw: A Shocking Outcome
When Manny Pacquiao stepped into the ring with Mario “El Azteca” Barrios, most expected a clear decision one way or another. Pacquiao, though older, carried the aura of a champion. Barrios, on the other hand, is a rising star with youth, reach, and energy on his side.
The bout, however, ended in a draw an outcome that neither camp appeared satisfied with. For fans, it raised eyebrows. For Pacquiao, it reignited his fighting spirit.
“I felt I could have done more. I didn’t train long enough. That’s on me,” Pacquiao told reporters. “But I’m not done. I want a rematch.”

What Went Wrong for Pacquiao?
While Pacquiao didn’t show any signs of rust at first glance, his usual blazing speed and footwork weren’t as sharp. Barrios controlled the distance well and capitalized on Pacquiao’s occasional hesitations. Some analysts believe Pacquiao’s rhythm was off due to a shorter training camp than usual.
In a post-fight interview, Pacquiao didn’t make excuses but acknowledged the obvious:
“I underestimated the preparation. I’ve always trained hard, but for this one, I needed more time. Barrios is not a joke he’s strong, fast, and focused.”
Mario Barrios: Rising Star, Confident Challenger
Barrios, who previously made headlines with his performance against Gervonta Davis and other top contenders, embraced the draw as a sign of respect.
“To go toe-to-toe with a legend like Manny and hold my own? That’s a win in my book,” Barrios stated. “If he wants a rematch, let’s go. I’ll be ready.”
The 29-year-old has steadily built his résumé and now boasts an even bigger feather in his cap: a draw against Pacquiao. A rematch, however, could solidify his standing or reshape it dramatically.
Will There Be a Rematch?
Pacquiao’s camp has already hinted at contacting Barrios’s team to open negotiations. There are talks of a possible rematch later this year, potentially in Las Vegas or Saudi Arabia locations that both camps are familiar with.
The boxing world seems torn. Some believe Pacquiao, at 45, should gracefully retire. Others argue that legends deserve one final redemption bout, especially under such controversial circumstances.
Promoters, meanwhile, are keen. A rematch could bring massive pay-per-view numbers, especially given the narrative veteran vs rising warrior, unfinished business, redemption.
Training Smarter and Longer: Pacquiao’s New Mindset
Pacquiao emphasized that if the rematch happens, he’ll be ready not just mentally, but physically. He plans a longer, more focused training camp with a renewed emphasis on recovery, sparring, and conditioning.
“No distractions, no politics. Just boxing. I want to prove to myself and to my fans that I can still deliver,” he said.

Fan Reactions: Mixed but Passionate
Social media exploded after the draw, with hashtags like #PacquiaoBarrios and #RobberyOrFair trending worldwide. Some fans blamed the judges, while others noted that Pacquiao’s age was a factor and that the result was fair.
Here are a few common sentiments:
- “That was NOT a draw. Manny landed more power punches.”
- “Barrios was sharper and younger. It’s a fair result.”
- “Respect to both fighters. But let’s see a rematch with real preparation.”
What This Means for Pacquiao’s Legacy
Manny Pacquiao’s legacy as an eight-division world champion is untouchable. Yet the hunger to prove he can still fight at a high level is what drives him. For some, this draw is just a footnote. For Pacquiao, it’s a call to arms.
If the rematch happens and Pacquiao wins decisively, it could be the perfect final chapter to an already legendary career. If not, it still shows the heart of a fighter who refuses to back down.
What’s Next for Mario Barrios?
For Barrios, the draw is a career boost. Sharing the ring with Pacquiao and avoiding defeat is a big deal. Should the rematch come to fruition, he has much to gain more exposure, a bigger payday, and a chance to definitively defeat a legend.
He’s already gained massive respect, but a second strong performance could launch him into title contention in multiple divisions.
Legacy in Motion: A Fight Worth Revisiting
The Manny Pacquiao vs. Mario Barrios storyline is far from over. Both fighters have unfinished business, and the fans are ready. Whether you side with the legend or the young blood, one thing is clear: the rematch, if it happens, could be explosive.
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🏷️ Tags: Manny Pacquiao, Mario Barrios, boxing rematch, controversial draw, Pacquiao comeback, Barrios fight, training camp, boxing legend, sports news, rematch 2025
📢 Hashtags: #MannyPacquiao, #MarioBarrios, #BoxingRematch, #PacquiaoReturns, #BoxingLegend, #FightNight, #ControversialDraw, #PacquiaoBarrios, #Rematch2025, #CombatSports
Final Round: What Comes After the Bell?
Only time will tell whether Manny Pacquiao gets the rematch he craves and whether it will be the final fight of his career or a resurgence that shocks the world one more time. One thing is certain: fans will be watching.
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