Manny Pacquiao, 46, falls short of history-making title win after inspired performance

Manny Pacquiao made a triumphant return to the boxing ring.

Even if it didn’t end in victory.

Fighting for the first time in nearly four years, the 46-year-old Pacquiao and 30-year-old Mario Barrios fought to a majority draw. The judges scored the welterweight bout 115-113 (in favor of Barrios), 114-114, 114-114 and Barrios retained his WBC welterweight title.

The crowd booed, but Pacquiao called it a "wonderful" fight. It was an inspired performance from Pacquiao against a fighter 16 years younger than him.

"I thought I won the fight. I mean, it’s close fight," Pacquiao said. "My opponent very tough. … Wonderful fight.’’

Barrios said he thought he “pulled (the fight) out. But I still tip my hat to Manny. It was an honor to share the ring with him.’’

Manny Pacquiao's incredible stamina

Barrios said he was surprised by Pacquiao’s stamina at age 46.

“It was crazy. His stamina. He could still crack. He’s still strong as hell. And, you know, his timing is real and everything. He was still a very awkward fighter to try to figure out," Barrios said.

Pacquiao had not fought since 2021, when he lost to Yordenis Ugas by unanimous decision.

Pacquiao was asked about his stamina and how he pulled this off at age 46.

“Oh, just work hard. Hard work and then discipline. Everything like that,’’ Pacquiao said.

What's next for Manny Pacquiao?

In the final rounds, Barrios said, his corner was telling him to pick it up and start pressing Pacquiao.

“That was the plan in the first place coming in here, try to make him feel old. But, man, he has such good legs, he has a lot in the tank. And … he still has a lot of fight left in him," Barrios said.

Barrios said he would give Pacquiao a rematch after being told by broadcaster Jim Gray that’s what Pacquiao wanted.

“Absolutely,’’ Barrios said.

Asked if he will fight again, Pacquiao said, “I think so. I think so. God willing.’’

The crowd cheered.

This article originally appeared on MMA Junkie: Manny Pacquiao vs. Mario Barrios ends in disappointing majority draw