Controversy Returns After Pacquiao’s Comeback

The boxing world was stunned when Manny Pacquiao returned to the ring this past July after a four-year hiatus, stepping in against Mario Barrios. Although many saw the veteran’s performance as enough to secure a win, the fight ended in a controversial majority draw. Now, the 46-year-old legend faces questions about what’s next in the final chapter of his illustrious career.

Among those pushing for a rematch, Keith Thurman has been particularly vocal. The former unified welterweight champion, who also recently returned from inactivity, reignited their rivalry by criticizing Pacquiao's tactics in their 2019 bout. In a recent interview with YSM Sports Media, Thurman launched a pointed accusation: “Manny Pacquiao is his own referee.” He alleged that Pacquiao requested breaks and called low blows on his own terms.

Thurman Seeks Redemption

For Thurman, a second fight would be a chance to even the score, as the split decision loss in 2019 remains the only blemish on his professional record. That victory made Pacquiao the oldest welterweight champion in history at 40.

“I don’t know how much you know about Manny Pacquiao’s history — he calls his own breaks, he calls his own low blows, he’ll deduct a point whenever he wants. So you have to be careful with Pacquiao acting like his own judge in there,” said Thurman.

“There’s a part of me that would love to step into that ring and face him again,” he added.