'Incompetent' judges lashed as Manny Pacquiao's boxing return ends in controversial draw
Updated . First published at
Boos reined down on the MGM Grand Garden Arena as Manny Pacquiao's return to boxing after four years ended in a controversial draw.
His fight with Mario Barrios over the WBC welterweight title went the full 12-round distance, with Pacquiao controlling the middle rounds.
However, one judge scored the bout in favour of Barrios after a strong finish, while the other two scored it a draw, allowing the champion to retain.
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Manny Pacquiao vs Mario Barrios Main Event
Speaking after the bout, Pacquiao said he felt that he had won the fight.
"I thought I won the fight," he said.
"A close fight. My opponent was very tough. A wonderful fighter."
Speaking on the Main Event broadcast, former world champion Shawn Porter labelled the decision from the judges as "incompetent" and believed Pacquiao should have won.
"I'm definitely a little sick from the decision," he said.
Many boxing experts on social media agreed, giving the nod to the Filipino fighter.
When asked if he had another fight in him, the 46-year-old Hall of Fame legend said "I think so ... god willing".
Barrios admitted he would be open to a rematch with Pacquiao down the line.
