Potential Rematch Between Pacquiao and Barrios
Two significant figures are set to determine the potential rematch between boxing legends Manny Pacquiao and Mario Barrios, which could take place in December at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. The initial bout ended in a contentious draw on July 19, 2025, leaving both fighters and their fans eager for a decisive sequel before the year concludes.
Initial Bout and Future Prospects
In that match, the WBC welterweight champion Barrios faced off against the Filipino star for all twelve rounds, yet the judges couldn’t reach a conclusive result, fostering a division among spectators who reacted passionately to the unclear outcome.
Recently, Pacquiao expressed his desire to step back into the ring in December, reaffirming his status as the top-ranked welterweight by the World Boxing Council. In a conversation with World Boxing News, Bob Santos, Barrios’ trainer, acknowledged that the future of the rematch lies with Al Haymon and Luis DeCubas Jr., suggesting that the final decisions regarding the fight will be outside his immediate influence.
“That’s really going to be up to Al Haymon and Luis DeCubas Jr.,” he stated. “I have no clue at this point, but it’s definitely up to Al and Luis what they’re gonna do.”
Pacquiao’s Reflections and Career Milestones
Meanwhile, Pacquiao took a reflective moment to celebrate his career milestones this week, sharing a message through his official X account. The 46-year-old, renowned for his record across eight weight classes, shared an image from his storied history in boxing and remarked on the difficult journeys he has endured.
“From flyweight to super welterweight, eight divisions, eight mountains to climb. Every fight was not just about winning a belt, but about testing myself, learning, and growing… I thank my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for giving me the strength, power, and heart,”
he conveyed in his message, inviting others to acknowledge their shared journeys in the sport.
Anticipation for the Rematch
Should Haymon and DeCubas agree to set up the rematch, Pacquiao is anticipated to have the advantage, having reestablished his competitiveness in the ring after overcoming the initial challenges posed by younger opponents. Given his performance at the previous fight and the buildup of anticipation around a possible rematch, Pacquiao is entering this contest as a leading favorite.
World Boxing News, having been the first to report on Pacquiao’s upcoming title opportunities, is committed to providing updates as this story unfolds.
