Ryan Garcia's world title shot confirmed against former Manny Pacquiao rival

Garcia goes for glory following a shock loss against Rolly Romero last May and defeat here could leave the Californian without many options as he looks to finally become world champion at the third time of asking.  

The Ring

In 2024, Garcia’s best chance of ruling the sport came against Devin Haney when he dropped the then-WBC super lightweight champion three times before winning on the scorecards.  

The bout was later changed to a No Contest following a failed drug test from Garcia, but he also weighted in over the 140lb limit so was unable to win the title regardless of the result. 

A 2025 loss to Romero prevented Garcia from collecting WBA honours, but he now has the opportunity to fulfil his potential against Barrios. 

Garcia’s move to welterweight could signal a return to big fights for the division with the likes of Haney, Conor Benn and WBO champion Brian Norman all operating there. 

Those fights will appeal to both Garcia and Barrios, but only the winner will be ideally positioned to push forward and land themselves another big fight in 2026.

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