"Ryan Garcia will attempt to capture his first major world title when he challenges Mario Barrios, the WBC welterweight champion, on Saturday at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas (DAZN, 5:45 p.m. ET). Garcia (24-2, 20 KOs) hasn't secured an official victory since his eighth-round stoppage of Oscar Duarte in December 2023. He defeated Devin Haney by decision in April 2024, but the result was changed to a no-contest after Garcia tested positive for a banned substance."
"Barrios (29-2-2, 18 KOs) will be making the fourth defense of his title. His most recent victory came against Fabian Maidana in May 2024, followed by consecutive draws against Abel Ramos in November 2024 and Manny Pacquiao last July. Armed with a sharp jab and tested against elite competition, Barrios has the tools to neutralize Garcia's left hand and dictate the range. If he can disrupt Garcia's rhythm and force him into deeper waters, the champion's experience could prove decisive."
""I hear what people are saying," Garcia told ESPN. "They say I don't have the skills or the ability, but I've won my whole life. I am not a loser. ... I lost to Gervonta Davis and had an off night against Rolly Romero. So what?" Garcia has publicly addressed his mental health, and his behavior ahead of the Haney fight overshadowed the event."
Ryan Garcia challenges Mario Barrios for the WBC welterweight title in Las Vegas. Garcia is 24-2 with 20 KOs but has not recorded an official win since December 2023; his April victory over Devin Haney was later ruled a no-contest after a positive test. Garcia's explosive left hook and elite hand speed remain his primary weapons at 147 pounds. Garcia has acknowledged mental-health struggles and drew attention for pre-fight behavior, yet he posted that he is ready. Barrios, 29-2-2, offers a sharp jab, experience, and the ability to control distance and disrupt Garcia's rhythm.
Read at ESPN.com
Unable to calculate read time
Collection
[
|
...
]