Mario Barrios retained his WBC world welterweight title on Saturday night after a hard-fought battle with Manny Pacquiao ended in a majority draw at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

The 30-year-old champion survived a spirited challenge from the legendary Pacquiao, who returned to the ring at 46 after a four-year retirement. One judge scored the bout 115-113 in favor of Barrios, while the other two scored it evenly at 114-114.

The result was met with a mixed reaction from the crowd, many of whom had come to witness what they hoped would be another fairytale moment in Pacquiao’s storied 30-year career. Throughout the fight, the Filipino icon showed flashes of his vintage brilliance, using his speed, angles, and ring IQ to frustrate the younger champion.

At several points, it looked as if Pacquiao might pull off the upset. But Barrios mounted a strong comeback in the final three rounds — winning all three on every judge’s scorecard — to salvage a draw and retain his title.

“I thought I won the fight,” Pacquiao said afterward. “It was close, but my opponent was very tough. I kept trying to find a way to finish it, but he had good combinations and defense. It was a great fight.”

Barrios also felt he had done enough to win but expressed deep admiration for Pacquiao. “I thought I pulled it out,” he said. “But hats off to Manny. Sharing the ring with someone of his caliber, his legacy — it was an honor. We gave it everything. Nothing but love and respect.”

The champion also praised Pacquiao’s remarkable endurance and skill, even at 46. “His stamina is insane. He can still punch, still crack hard. His timing, rhythm — he’s still awkward and tough to figure out,” Barrios added.

While the fight didn’t end in victory for either man, it was a testament to Pacquiao’s enduring spirit — and a reminder that he remains a force to be reckoned with, even after nearly three decades in the sport.