LAS VEGAS — Ryan Garcia has finally claimed the world championship title he’s been after for so long. In an electrifying fight against Mario Barrios, Garcia dominated, winning by unanimous decision with scores of 119-108, 120-107, and 118-109.
From the very start, Garcia surprised Barrios, knocking him down twice in the opening round with powerful right hands. Throughout the fight, Garcia used a mix of punches, frequently landing quick rights that kept Barrios on the defensive. “It was a master class,” Garcia said. He wanted to show all that he could do, not just rely on his famous left hook.
Despite suffering an injury to his right hand during the match, Garcia’s performance marked a pivotal moment in his career, especially after facing setbacks in recent years, including a controversial drug test that led to a suspension. Expert predictions estimated that this fight could define his future in boxing, placing him back on the map as a serious contender.
Barrios, aiming to bounce back after drawing his last two matches, struggled against Garcia’s speed and precision. With his new trainer, Joe Goossen, Barrios hoped to enhance his performance, but it wasn’t enough. Goossen commented, “That’s the performance I expected from him,” referring to Garcia.
Garcia, now 27 years old, has had a mixed bag of performances recently, with a record of 1-2 in his last three fights before this victory. Yet, he remains a fan favorite and boasts a significant following on social media. His ups and downs have not diminished his star power; if anything, they’ve made him more relatable to fans who appreciate his resilience.
In a surprising turn, Garcia has called out WBO 140-pound champion Shakur Stevenson for his next fight, showing he’s eager for more challenges. “I want to be a great champion. I’ll fight anybody,” Garcia declared.
This exciting bout has stirred reactions online, with fans buzzing about potential matchups. Recent social media trends show that many are eager to see Garcia and Stevenson square off, deeming it one of the most anticipated fights of the year. In a sport known for its unpredictability, Garcia’s title win could be just the beginning of a bright new chapter in his career.
As he looks ahead, Garcia has plenty of options for his first title defense. What’s certain is that boxing fans are eager for the next move in his journey. For more insights on boxing trends and fighter stats, you can check out BoxingScene.
