Mario Barrios, left, and Abel Ramos react after a split decision draw in a WBC welterweight title bout in Arlington, Texas.
As the excitement built for the Mike Tyson vs Jake Paul showdown, Mario Barrios retained his WBC welterweight title in a dramatic split draw against Abel Ramos. Barrios, the interim champion, started strong, landing a devastating right hand in the second round that floored Ramos. However, Ramos staged an incredible comeback in the sixth round, knocking Barrios down with back-to-back right-hand punches. By round 11, the fight had turned into a slugfest, with the score narrowing to 95-93 in Barrios' favor. The bout ended in a split draw, with scores of 116-110 for Barrios, 114-112 for Ramos, and 113-113. Barrios landed 279 punches to Ramos' 204 in what was a thrilling and unpredictable contest ahead of the headline act.
Mario Barrios, left, and Abel Ramos react after a split decision draw in a WBC welterweight title bout in Arlington, Texas.
Mario Barrios reacts after a WBC welterweight title bout against Abel Ramos in Arlington, Texas.
Abel Ramos reacts after a WBC welterweight title bout against Mario Barrios in Arlington, Texas.
Abel Ramos, left, fights Mario Barrios during a WBC welterweight title bout in Arlington, Texas.
Abel Ramos lands a right to Mario Barrios during a WBC welterweight title bout in Arlington, Texas.
Abel Ramos knocks down Mario Barrios during a WBC welterweight title bout in Arlington, Texas.
Mario Barrios hits Abel Ramos during a WBC welterweight title bout in Arlington, Texas.
Mario Barrios hits Abel Ramos during a WBC welterweight title bout in Arlington, Texas.