Boxing is better when Ryan Garcia is on top of his game - ESPN

ESPN

by Andreas Hale

February 22, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Ryan Garcia's dominant victory over Mario Barrios in their WBC welterweight title fight marked a turning point in his career. After facing setbacks and questioning his ability to reach his full potential, Garcia showcased his skills with a flawless performance, combining speed, precision, and power to secure his first major world championship. The win not only solidified his status as one of boxing's brightest stars but also opened doors for lucrative title defenses and high-profile matchups. Garcia's journey to this moment has been anything but smooth. Over the past few years, he dealt with personal and professional challenges, including losses to Gervonta "Tank" Davis and Rolando "Rolly" Romero, as well as a no-contest against Devin Haney due to a failed drug test. However, his victory over Barrios demonstrated that he has matured both as a fighter and as a person. During the post-fight news conference, Garcia expressed a newfound sense of calm and confidence, hinting at even greater achievements ahead. The stakes for Garcia have never been higher. With a win, he not only captured a world title but also reignited his rivalry with Shakur Stevenson, whom he has been eager to rematch since their 2013 amateur bout. Stevenson's recent success, including his defeat of Teofimo Lopez Jr., positions him as a formidable opponent. Both fighters have expressed their desire to face each other next, potentially making it one of the biggest fights in boxing. This clash between Garcia and Stevenson would not only be a personal redemption for both but also a spectacle for fans. Their rivalry adds excitement to the sport, and the possibility of such a high-profile matchup highlights why boxing is at its best when Garcia is performing at his peak. His ability to dominate in the ring and generate buzz around future fights makes him a key figure in keeping boxing relevant and engaging. Garcia's performance against Barrios was a masterclass in skill and determination, proving that he can be a force to be reckoned with. As he looks ahead to future challenges, including a potential showdown with Stevenson, fans can expect more thrilling moments from the fighter who is determined

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Originally published on ESPN on 2/22/2026