Could be both things. You could tell Sergio was holding back big time on his punches, but credit to Barker he wasn't no bum and wasn't bowing down to anyone. Theres always an opponent that will give any great fighter a hardtime. Good fight to keep Sergio on his toes, also made him look somewhat beatable, but in reality Barker an exceptional fighter with very good defense and a very good jab that would make any fighter look bad. Almost a 160lb version of Kotelnik. Sergio closed the show in spectacular fashion regardless, but you could tell in the postfight interview Sergio wasn't very happy with his performance. Great performances by both fighters. Sergios stock didnt rise or fall, but showed ability to adapt and Barkers stock definitely rose.
I don't agree with that at all. Now, I think Sergio got more than he bargained for, sure. But think about it this way: Martinez is 36 years old. He needs and deserves a big money fight before he retires. Who is out there to give him one? His division is thin as ****. He can't cut the weight necessary to fight Pac. Rumors are swirling that Floyd might be willing. If he goes out there and does a number on this guy like the last few dudes he's fought, Floyd, who is risk averse as hell is likely to say "**** it. I'll go fight Canelo or Khan or some shitbag. I'm Floyd Mayweather. I don't need you." That's millions of dollars and potentially huge legacy Sergio's never, ever going to get. That's being pretty much set for life. Why not just leave it in 4th gear for a few rounds to entice Floyd just a bit? And you're crazy if you think Martinez would've been the first fighter to carry a guy a little.