The highly anticipated match between Manny Pacquiao and Mario Barrios concluded with an official result of a majority draw, with scores of 115-113, 114-114, and 114-114. Despite the outcome, many believe Barrios has only himself to blame for this result, as he displayed a passive strategy during several crucial rounds of the fight.
In the final round, Round 12, Barrios aimed to secure his position by landing several effective jabs and attempting an uppercut, which unfortunately missed its target. He managed to connect with a series of punches, including a solid right hand, while Pacquiao retaliated with a left hand. However, Barrios maintained pressure, landing multiple jabs and an uppercut that showcased his determination. The broadcast suggested that Pacquiao might be favored by the judges, given the close nature of the scorecards.
Moving to Round 11, Barrios continued to assert himself, landing a strong right hand and a combination of punches that kept him in the lead with a score of 10-9 for this round. Pacquiao attempted to respond with a left hand and a right hook, but Barrios's consistent jabs and a body shot made it clear he was controlling the pace of the fight.
In Round 10, Pacquiao shifted the momentum slightly, earning a score of 10-9 in his favor. He executed a vigorous combination, but Barrios countered effectively, landing several jabs and a critical uppercut. Despite Pacquiao’s attempts to rally, Barrios remained a formidable opponent, showcasing his skills throughout the round.
Round 9 saw Pacquiao gaining the upper hand with a score of 10-9. He delivered a powerful combination that caught Barrios off guard. However, Barrios continued to dig in with body shots and counter punches, demonstrating his ability to remain competitive even when the momentum shifted.
In Round 8, Pacquiao's resurgence was noticeable as he scored 10-9, landing several significant punches, including a combination that showcased his renowned speed and technique. Yet, Barrios fought back with effective jabs and body shots, making it a closely contested round.
Barrios's performance peaked in Round 7, where he was awarded a score of 10-9. He landed multiple jabs and combinations that seemed to rattle Pacquiao, who still managed to respond with a jab of his own. The crowd's reaction indicated a strong preference for Pacquiao, but Barrios's performance was proving to be strategic.
Round 6 saw Barrios earning a 10-9 score as he dominated with his jabs and counters, while Pacquiao struggled to land clean shots. Despite his experience, Pacquiao's punches lacked the usual power, leading Barrios to capitalize on the opportunity.
In Round 5, Barrios continued his strong performance, scoring 10-9 once again. His consistent jabbing kept Pacquiao at bay, and while Pacquiao attempted to flurry, he failed to land effective strikes, allowing Barrios to control the round.
During Round 4, Barrios extended his lead with a score of 10-9, landing solid jabs and combinations that rattled Pacquiao. Despite Pacquiao's attempts to respond, Barrios's accuracy and volume of punches proved decisive.
In Round 3, Barrios maintained his advantage, scoring 10-9 again. His commitment to working the body and connecting with jabs was evident, as Pacquiao struggled to find his rhythm. The referee’s reassurance to Pacquiao regarding the legality of Barrios's punches highlighted the competitive nature of the bout.
Round 2 ended with Barrios edging ahead with a score of 10-9. He effectively countered Pacquiao’s attacks with jabs and rights, showcasing his skill and strategy as he aimed to defend his WBC welterweight championship.
The fight opened with Round 1 going to Pacquiao, who scored 10-9. His active jabbing and combinations established an early lead, while Barrios responded with some effective jabs of his own. However, Pacquiao’s experience and speed gave him the advantage in that initial round.
The bout between Manny Pacquiao and Mario Barrios was an exciting showcase of boxing prowess, with both fighters displaying their skills and strategies. The majority draw result reflects the competitive nature of the fight, leaving fans and analysts to debate the outcome. As Barrios seeks to learn from this experience, Pacquiao continues to solidify his legacy in the boxing world, even at 46 years old.
