Pacquiao and Barrios Battle to a Draw in Las Vegas Showdown; Fundora, Cruz, Figueroa Score Big Wins

In a dramatic return to the ring, boxing legend Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao fought to a majority draw against WBC Welterweight World Champion Mario “El Azteca” Barrios Saturday night at the MGM Grand Garden Arena. The 12-round main event headlined a PBC Pay-Per-View on Prime Video and was marked by momentum shifts, grit, and a raucous crowd.

Two judges scored the bout 114-114, while one gave a narrow 115-113 decision to Barrios, allowing the younger champion to retain his title.

“I thought I won the fight,” said Pacquiao (62-8-3, 39 KOs). “It was close. He was tough. I trained hard and stayed disciplined.”

Barrios (29-2-2, 18 KOs) showed his respect for the icon. “This was the biggest event of my career. It was an honor to share the ring with a legend.”

Punch stats reflected the razor-thin margin: Pacquiao outlanded Barrios 81 to 75 in power punches, while Barrios led in jabs 45 to 20. The eighth round saw Pacquiao surge with a series of left hooks, igniting the arena, but Barrios closed strong, sweeping the final three rounds on all scorecards.

“His stamina is insane,” said Barrios. “He’s still strong, still quick, and very awkward.”

Both fighters expressed interest in a rematch. “Of course I want a rematch,” said Pacquiao. “I want to leave a legacy and make the Filipino people proud.” Barrios agreed: “Absolutely. This was huge for boxing.”

Co-Main: Fundora Stops Tszyu in Rematch

In the co-main event, Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora (23-1-1, 15 KOs) defended his WBC Super Welterweight title by stopping Tim Tszyu (25-3, 18 KOs) after seven rounds. Fundora dropped Tszyu with a left hook in the opening round and dominated with reach and volume. Though Tszyu rallied in round seven, his corner halted the bout before the eighth.

“He’s the best 154-pounder in the world right now,” Tszyu admitted. Fundora, who landed 27 power punches in round seven, said, “I’m here at 154 to stay and ready to unify.”

Cruz Outclasses Salcido in Late-Notice Match

Mexican star Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz (28-3-1, 18 KOs) earned a dominant unanimous decision over Omar Salcido (20-3, 14 KOs) with scores of 100-88 and 99-89 (twice). Cruz floored Salcido in the final round and showcased his signature pressure throughout.

“I do my talking in the ring,” said Cruz. “Props to Omar for stepping up. I’m a world champion for a reason.”

Figueroa Outworks Gonzalez in Featherweight Eliminator

Former two-division champion Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa (26-2-1, 19 KOs) won a competitive unanimous decision over Joet Gonzalez (27-5, 15 KOs) in a WBA Featherweight Title Eliminator. Figueroa’s volume (1074 punches thrown) helped him edge Gonzalez on the cards (116-112, 116-112, 115-113).

“I felt in control,” said Figueroa. “It was close and gritty, but I want a world title shot next.”

Undercard Highlights:

Gary Russell Jr. (32-2, 19 KOs) returned with a vicious body shot KO of Hugo Castañeda (15-3-1, 11 KOs) in round 10.

David “Rey” Picasso (32-0-1, 17 KOs) remained unbeaten with a unanimous decision over Kyonosuke Kameda.

Mark “Magnifico” Magsayo (28-2, 18 KOs) dominated Jorge Mata (21-3-2) en route to a clean sweep on two judges’ cards.