The boxing legend, Manny Pacquiao, returns from his retirement after a four-year absence to compete against the WBC champion, Mario Barrios, on July 19 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. The fight is set to start at 8:00 p.m. ET when the world ex-champion in eight different categories, now 46 years old, doesn’t start as a favorite but is willing to do the unthinkable, beating his own record as the oldest man to win a welterweight title. Here’s our BossAction analysis and prediction.
Pacquiao vs Barrios Fight Analysis: What’s at Stake in This High-Profile Bout?
The last time Manny Pacquiao stepped onto a ring was in August 2021, when he lost the WBA welterweight title to Yordenis Ugas after more than two years without any activity. Before that, in 2018-2019, everything indicates Pacquiao’s physical and performance were intact. However, it was precisely this fight against Ugas in 2021 that showcased the loss of velocity and handling issues that the Filipino legend had been experiencing.
On the other side, Barrios may never have imagined ever fighting against the legend himself, especially after his retirement, but that doesn’t mean he will face this as an exhibition show. Barrios is not experiencing his best career moment after losing important fights against Davis and Thurman, as well as a flat draw against Abel Ramos.
Now both fighters will be tested. Pacquiao aims to pass the cardio exam and complete the entire rounds, because it is no surprise that the 46-year-old is not returning to his prime and his classic form. He will probably rely on a constant jab, trying to corner his rival. On the other hand, Barrios seeks a creative approach to evade Manny’s read through his arsenal that includes a couple of functional defensive moves, good stamina, and a quick jab. The big picture is that Barrios is looking to add the biggest name-value win in his career, and there is no better opportunity than this one.
Manny Pacquiao’s Boxing Record & Reigns
Manny Pacquiao was a champion in eight different categories and a member of the International Boxing Hall of Fame (IBHOF). His resume records 72 fights with 62 wins, eight defeats, and two draws. His last five battles resulted in three wins, against Lucas Matthysse in July 2018, Adrien Broner in January 2019, and Keith Thurman in July 2019. The other two losses were against Jeff Horn in July 2017 and Yordenis Ugas in an early fight in August 2021.
Mario Barrios’s Boxing Record & Accolades
Mario Barrios is the current WBC welterweight champion and former WBA champion. His accolades registered 32 fights, 29 victories, two defeats, and one draw. His last five battles include a loss against Keith Thurman in February 2022, 3 wins against Giovanni Santiago (2023), Yordenis Ugas (2023), and Fabián Maidana (2024), and one draw against Abel Ramos in November 2024.
Who Wins? Pacquiao vs Barrios Expert Fight Prediction
Considering Manny Pacquiao’s loss of velocity and slow rhythm four years ago, it’s difficult to believe he can beat a young Mario Barrios. We cannot expect an improvement in these areas for this weekend’s fight. However, it is also hard to believe “El Azteca” Barrios can KO Pacquiao, given his recent display of poor performance. Considering the styles of both fighters, we can expect the final bell to ring, and neither boxer will secure a knockout. We predict that all rounds will be completed, and it will be up to the judges to decide.
