BREAKING NEWS: Mike Tyson Slam Judges Over Controversial Draw in Pacquiao vs Barrios!

At 07:22 PM +07 on Monday, July 21, 2025, boxing legend Mike Tyson has ignited a storm of controversy by publicly condemning the judges’ decision in the recent Manny Pacquiao vs. Mario Barrios fight, which ended in a contentious majority draw. The former heavyweight champion’s outspoken critique, delivered via a fiery social media post, has reignited debates about judging integrity in the sport, thrusting the Las Vegas bout back into the global spotlight.

The Fight Recap

On July 19, 2025, at the MGM Grand Garden Arena, 46-year-old Manny Pacquiao returned from a four-year retirement to challenge WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios, 30. Pacquiao dazzled with his signature speed and combinations, particularly in the early rounds, while Barrios relied on his jab and late-round aggression to stay competitive. The fight went the full 12 rounds, with judges scoring it 115-113 for Barrios, 114-114, and 114-114, resulting in a majority draw that allowed Barrios to retain his title. Pacquiao, who led on scorecards entering the 10th, faded as Barrios won the final three rounds on all cards, a decision that left the pro-Pacquiao crowd of 13,107 stunned and vocal.

Unofficial tallies, including from Uncrowned and the Associated Press, leaned toward Pacquiao with scores like 116-113 and 115-113, highlighting the fight’s closeness and the judges’ split perspectives. Pacquiao himself expressed post-fight, “I thought I won the fight,” fueling perceptions of a potential miscarriage of justice.

Tyson’s Outburst

Mike Tyson, whose own career included controversial moments, took to X at 07:00 PM +07 to voice his frustration. “Judges robbed Pacquiao again. Blind or corrupt? Disgrace to boxing,” he wrote, referencing Pacquiao’s history of disputed decisions, including his 2021 loss to Yordenis Ugas. Tyson’s comments draw from his own experience with the Jake Paul draw in November 2024, where he felt carried rather than challenged, a sentiment he seems to project onto this outcome. His post, garnering over 500,000 views within minutes, has amplified calls for a review, with fans echoing his sentiment that Pacquiao’s performance deserved a win.

Tyson’s critique aligns with a growing narrative that judging in high-profile fights often favors younger champions or established narratives, though no concrete evidence of bias has surfaced. His involvement adds weight, given his iconic status and past criticisms of the sport’s governance.

Fan and Expert Reactions

The boxing community is divided. Trending on X, fans have rallied behind Tyson’s stance, with many labeling the draw a “robbery,” citing Pacquiao’s early dominance and Barrios’ passivity in key rounds. Others defend the judges, noting Barrios’ late surge and higher punch output (120 of 658 vs. Pacquiao’s 101 of 577, per Compubox), suggesting the decision, while controversial, wasn’t baseless. Analysts like ESPN’s Andreas Hale acknowledge Pacquiao’s vintage form but point to his fatigue as a factor, questioning whether Tyson’s emotional response overshadows the fight’s nuances.

What This Means

Tyson’s intervention could pressure the WBC or Nevada authorities to investigate, potentially leading to a rematch—both fighters have expressed interest. For Pacquiao, the draw keeps his legacy intact but delays a historic title win at 46, while Barrios’ title defense is marred by an asterisk. The incident underscores ongoing concerns about judging consistency, with Tyson’s voice amplifying a call for reform. As the debate rages, the sport braces for fallout, with Pacquiao’s next move and the judges’ accountability hanging in the balance.

This saga, unfolding in real-time, promises to shape boxing’s narrative as the week progresses.