BREAKING: Mario Barrios Just STUNS With A BOMBSHELL Ahead Of His FIGHT With Manny Pacquiao! IT’S OVER FOR ME!
The boxing world is reeling in shock as Mario Barrios dropped a jaw-dropping bombshell just moments ago, declaring “It’s over for me!” ahead of his highly anticipated fight with Manny Pacquiao. The stunning admission, made during a live press conference in Las Vegas, has left fans and promoters scrambling as the July 2025 showdown hangs in the balance.
Barrios’ Shocking Confession
At exactly 04:30 PM +07 today, Barrios (29-2, 18 KOs), the WBC interim welterweight champion, took the stage at the MGM Grand and stunned the audience with an emotional outburst. “I’ve trained hard, but facing Pacquiao? It’s over for me,” he said, his voice breaking. “The pressure, the legacy—it’s too much. I can’t do this.” The 30-year-old San Antonio native, visibly shaken, cited sleepless nights and doubts about his readiness to face the 46-year-old Filipino legend, whose record stands at 62-8-2 (39 KOs).
The confession came after weeks of hype for the fight, scheduled for July 26, 2025, with a reported $50 million purse on the line. Barrios’ sudden breakdown has raised questions about his mental state, with insiders suggesting the weight of facing Pacquiao—whom he once idolized—has overwhelmed him.
The Backdrop to the Breakdown
Barrios’ rise under Golden Boy Promotions had positioned him as a rising star, especially after his knockout win over Abel Ramos in March 2025. However, the prospect of stepping into the ring with Pacquiao, who last fought in 2022 but remains a global icon, appears to have taken a toll. Pacquiao’s camp had teased a dominant performance, adding to the pressure on Barrios, who recently admitted to struggling with training camp intensity.
Promoter Oscar De La Hoya, who lost to Pacquiao in 2008, was seen rushing backstage after the press conference, reportedly urging Barrios to reconsider. “This fight can make you,” De La Hoya was overheard saying, but Barrios’ resolve seemed shattered.
Reactions and Uncertainty
The boxing community is in chaos. Social media platforms like X are flooded with reactions, ranging from disbelief—“Barrios is throwing away his career!”—to sympathy—“The kid’s human, Pacquiao’s a monster!” Fellow fighter Ryan Garcia tweeted, “Mario, you got this—don’t quit!” while fans speculate whether this is a ploy to gain sympathy or a genuine surrender.
Golden Boy Promotions has yet to issue an official statement, but sources suggest they may seek a replacement if Barrios withdraws. Pacquiao’s team, caught off guard, hinted at proceeding with the event, with a spokesperson saying, “Manny’s ready for whoever steps up.”
What Lies Ahead?
With the fight just weeks away, Barrios’ bombshell throws everything into doubt. Will he pull out, forcing a last-minute scramble for an opponent, or will a pep talk from De La Hoya revive his spirit? The welterweight division hangs in suspense, with the outcome of this drama set to shape the summer boxing calendar.
Is Barrios done, or can he rise from this? Share your thoughts below!
