Manny Pacquiao made headlines not only for his valiant return to the boxing ring after a four-year hiatus but also for the staggering amount he is set to earn from his latest bout. Facing off against the much younger and taller Mario Barrios, the Filipino boxing legend battled to a draw but still walked away a massive financial winner.
Pacquiao, now 46 years old, reportedly earned a guaranteed base purse of $12 million (over ₱683 million) for stepping into the ring with Barrios, the reigning WBC welterweight champion. On top of that, Pacquiao is expected to receive an additional $5 to $6 million (around ₱284 million to ₱340 million) from pay-per-view (PPV) shares. Altogether, his earnings from this single match could exceed ₱1 billion.
The fight marked Pacquiao’s official return after retiring in 2021 to focus on his political career. Standing at 5-foot-6, the former eight-division world champion faced the 5-foot-11 Barrios, who is 16 years his junior. Despite the physical and age disadvantage, Pacquiao displayed impressive form and resilience throughout the match.
“Even after all these years, I felt great in there,” Pacquiao shared in an Instagram post following the fight. “I thank God for the strength and grace to still compete at this level.” He also praised Barrios, calling him “a true warrior” and said it was an honor to share the ring with him.
Pacquiao extended his gratitude to God, his family, and the millions of fans who supported him during his comeback. “Thank you, Lord, for keeping us safe in the ring. I want to thank my wife, my kids, my family, and everyone who supported me throughout this fight,” he wrote.
“To all my fans around the world, especially my fellow Filipinos, thank you for your love, prayers, and support. This may not have been the result we wanted, but I gave my best and I will always fight with heart—for God, for family, and country. Mabuhay ang Pilipinas. To God be all the glory.”
Though the match ended in a draw, the event reaffirmed Pacquiao’s status as a living legend and a formidable force in boxing—and solidified his place as one of the sport’s highest earners.