Barrios Addresses Pacquiao Fight Criticism: "Very Surprised" It's Happening

James

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Post on Jul 18, 2025

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Barrios Addresses Pacquiao Fight Criticism: "Very Surprised" It's Happening

Yordenis Ugás's unexpected callout of Manny Pacquiao for a potential rematch has sparked a wave of controversy, with many questioning the timing and rationale behind the challenge. Now, former welterweight champion Yordenis Ugas, who previously defeated Pacquiao, has responded to the backlash.

The boxing world was abuzz last week when news broke that Ugas had publicly expressed his desire for a rematch against the legendary Manny Pacquiao. This announcement came as a surprise to many, considering Pacquiao's recent retirement and Ugas's own fight schedule. The criticism has been swift and harsh, with many questioning whether this is a genuine sporting challenge or a calculated publicity stunt.

Ugas, in a recent interview, expressed his surprise at the intensity of the negative reaction. "I'm very surprised by the criticism," he stated. "I was simply stating my desire for a rematch. I believe I won fairly and decisively, and a rematch would be a good opportunity to prove it again."

Understanding the Controversy: Why the Backlash?

The criticism against Ugas stems from several factors:

• Pacquiao's Retirement: Pacquiao announced his retirement from boxing in 2021, leading many to believe a rematch was unlikely, if not impossible. The timing of Ugas's callout feels opportunistic to some, especially given Pacquiao's focus on his political career.
• Ugas's Recent Performances: Since his victory over Pacquiao, Ugas's career trajectory hasn't been as stellar as some anticipated. A loss to Errol Spence Jr. casts some doubt on his current competitive standing, fueling the perception that this rematch bid is more about financial gain than sporting merit.
• The Perception of "Money Grab": Many boxing fans believe that Ugas is primarily motivated by financial incentives, suggesting that a rematch against Pacquiao represents a lucrative opportunity regardless of the sporting implications. This perception is amplified by the lack of significant wins since his fight with Pacquiao.

Ugas Defends His Position: More Than Just Money?

Ugas, however, insists that his motivations are more nuanced than a simple desire for a payday. He maintains that he feels he has unfinished business with Pacquiao and that a rematch would allow him to solidify his legacy and prove his dominance in the welterweight division.

"This isn't just about the money," he asserted in the interview. "It's about proving myself. I believe I won convincingly, and a rematch would allow me to silence the doubters and cement my place among the greats."

What Happens Next? The Future of the Pacquiao-Ugas Rematch

The likelihood of a Pacquiao-Ugas rematch remains uncertain. While Pacquiao hasn't publicly responded to Ugas's callout, his retirement and current political commitments suggest that a return to the ring is unlikely. Even if Pacquiao were to reconsider retirement, the timing and logistical challenges associated with such a high-profile fight present significant hurdles.

This situation underscores the complex dynamics within the boxing world, where personal ambition, financial incentives, and public perception constantly intersect. Only time will tell if Ugas's audacious challenge will bear fruit, or if it will remain a controversial chapter in the careers of both boxers.

Keywords: Yordenis Ugas, Manny Pacquiao, boxing, rematch, controversy, welterweight, boxing news, sports news, boxing match, Pacquiao vs Ugas, Ugas Pacquiao rematch, boxing criticism.