20/05/2025
Manny Pacquiao vs Mario Barrios
Manny Pacquiao (62-8-2, 39 KOs), who is set to make a comeback on July 19 in Las Vegas against Mario Barrios (29-2-1) for the WBC welterweight world title. This highly anticipated fight sparks widespread discussion. Below is a multi-angle analysis of why this matchup is compelling and an exploration of Pacquiao’s chances of winning.
Age and Stamina: The Challenge of 46
At 46, the biggest question surrounding Pacquiao is whether he can still endure the grueling 12 rounds of a professional boxing match. The sport demands exceptional speed, stamina, and cardiovascular endurance, and for older fighters, the health risks are significant. However, history shows that age is not an insurmountable barrier:
George Foreman: This heavyweight legend retired at 28, returned at 38, and at 46 stunned the boxing world by defeating Michael Moorer to claim the WBA and IBF heavyweight titles, retiring at 48.
Bernard Hopkins: Nicknamed “The Alien,” he set a record as the oldest world champion at 49 and retired at 51. At 46, during his fight against Jean Pascal, he famously did push-ups during the seventh-round break, showcasing remarkable stamina and mental dominance.
These examples demonstrate that elite boxers, through scientific training and sheer determination, can remain competitive at an advanced age. Known for his discipline and work ethic, Pacquiao’s physical reserves may still be sufficient to meet this challenge.
Fight Records: Reference, Not Definitive
Manny Pacquiao: In 2019, at 40, he defeated a prime Keith Thurman, showcasing his dominance. In 2021, he lost to Yordenis Ugas, but limited preparation time meant he wasn’t at his best.
Mario Barrios: Lost to Keith Thurman in 2022 but bounced back in 2023 by defeating Yordenis Ugas, proving he remains a top welterweight contender.
Both fighters have faced the same opponents with opposite outcomes—Pacquiao beat Thurman but lost to Ugas, while Barrios did the reverse. This suggests their skills are closely matched. Fighter form varies, so these records are for reference only, though Pacquiao’s experience and historical achievements give him a slight psychological edge.
Pacquiao’s Chances: Punch Volume and Tactical Brilliance
Pacquiao’s greatest weapon is his unparalleled punch volume and relentless offensive rhythm. In 2010 against Antonio Margarito, he threw an astonishing 1,069 punches over 12 rounds, landing 474, overwhelming his opponent. For context, in Mike Tyson’s fight against Jake Paul, Tyson threw just 18 punches over 8 rounds, and Paul threw 78—combined, they didn’t even match Pacquiao’s output in a single round.
In the 2015 “Fight of the Century” against Floyd Mayweather, Pacquiao threw 429 punches over 12 rounds. Surprisingly, Mayweather, renowned for his defensive mastery, threw 435 punches—six more than Pacquiao—to secure the victory. This elite showdown revealed a critical truth: when skill levels are nearly equal, relentless punch output and tactical flexibility often decide the outcome. Mayweather, typically conservative, increased his punch volume to win, proving that even a defensive master must attack aggressively to prevail.
Against Barrios, if Pacquiao can unleash his signature high-paced offensive style, leveraging his experience as an eight-division world champion, he could overwhelm Barrios’ counterattacks. His ability to sustain such intensity, paired with tactical acumen, makes him a formidable threat.
Ranking Controversy: Balancing Skill and Marketability
British boxing icon Ricky Hatton has questioned the WBC’s decision to rank Pacquiao in the top five, arguing he hasn’t fought recently to justify it. However, professional boxing has always balanced skill with commercial appeal. As an eight-division champion with a global fanbase, Pacquiao’s comeback is a massive draw for fans. A warm-up fight might have been ideal, but his disciplined training and storied career lend credibility to the WBC’s ranking. While Barrios is younger, Pacquiao’s legendary status and strategic wisdom could bridge the age gap.
Extra Highlight: Father and Son on the Same Card
On fight night, Pacquiao’s son will compete on the same card, adding an emotional layer and making this event a historic moment in boxing. This father-son appearance injects additional intrigue and appeal to the spectacle.
Pacquiao’s comeback is more than a fight—it’s a test of age-defying limits. With his historical achievements, punch volume advantage, and vast experience, he is far from an underdog against the younger Barrios. The success stories of Foreman and Hopkins, combined with Pacquiao’s unwavering professionalism, make this fight a must-watch. Win or lose, Pacquiao’s courage and legendary legacy will leave fans inspired
