Gervonta Garcia, boasting a record of 24 wins against 2 losses with 20 knockouts, is gearing up for a pivotal encounter against WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios, who holds a record of 29 wins, 2 losses, and 2 draws, with 18 KOs. The two fighters will face off in the main event of “The Ring: High Stakes” show on February 21 at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, set to be broadcast on DAZN PPV.
At a recent kickoff press conference, Garcia expressed confidence in his ability to secure a victory, stating, “I think he’s getting a little worn down now. I think he’s taken some good punches and a couple of too many good shots. He’s slowed down a little bit.” Garcia critiqued Barrios’s fighting style, describing it as “very generic,” but acknowledged Barrios’s effectiveness within that framework. Garcia boldly claimed, “For sure [I can knock him out]. I believe I have the fastest hands in boxing.”
Barrios, who has faced a challenging few years, currently stands at 3 wins, 2 losses, and 2 draws over the last five years. Following losses to Gervonta Davis (TKO in the 11th round) in 2021 and Keith Thurman (unanimous decision) in 2022, he rebounded with victories against Jovanie Santiago (TKO in the 8th), Yordenis Ugas (unanimous decision), and Fabian Maidana (unanimous decision) throughout 2023 and 2024. During this stretch, Barrios captured the WBC interim belt and was elevated to champion status after the departure of Terence Crawford from the division.
Despite holding the title, Barrios has recently faced challenges in his title defenses, with two consecutive draws, including an intense split draw against Abel Ramos in November 2024 and a majority draw against boxing icon Manny Pacquiao in July, where many felt Pacquiao deserved the decision after making a comeback from retirement.
Garcia, eager for his shot at the championship, remarked on the significance of this fight, emphasizing the entertainment aspect of boxing. He expressed his willingness to compete for the title, stating, “I had another offer at the time for more money, but I said, ‘Nah, I’m cool.’ I’m going for Mario.” This determination illustrates Garcia’s commitment to claiming his first championship belt.
As both fighters prepare for this high-stakes showdown, boxing fans can anticipate an electrifying match filled with intensity and potential for significant implications in the welterweight division. The bout promises to be a critical moment in both of their careers and underscores the endlessly captivating nature of the sport.