Mario Barrios vs. Ryan Garcia fight start time: Where to watch, live stream and PPV price for title bout
CBS Sports
by
Brent Brookhouse
February 21, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Ryan Garcia is set to make his first attempt at world championship glory when he faces WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios in a highly anticipated showdown on Saturday night at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. This fight marks a pivotal moment for both boxers, as Garcia looks to rebound from a series of career setbacks, including a failed drug test and a lackluster performance against Rolando Romero, while Barrios aims to solidify his reign as champion after mixed results in recent defenses.
Garcia, one of boxing’s most promising stars, has shown flashes of brilliance but has also faced significant challenges. His 2021 loss to Gervonta “Tank” Davis and a failed drug test during his bout with Devin Haney highlight the struggles he has encountered on his path to the top. Now, Garcia sees this fight as a “do-or-die” moment, a chance to prove himself against a formidable opponent in Barrios, who has defended his title twice but has also shown vulnerabilities in past bouts.
Barrios, known for his resilience, will need to maintain his focus to overcome Garcia’s explosive punching and technical skills. The stakes are high as both fighters aim to establish dominance in the welterweight division. A victory could propel one of them into the spotlight as a dominant force in the sport.
The undercard also features several notable names, including Gary Antuanne Russell, who will defend his WBA junior welterweight title against Andy Hiraoka. Additionally, Frank Martin and Nahir Albright square off in another key bout, with both fighters seeking to make a statement in their pursuit of championship glory.
Boxing enthusiasts are in for a treat as this event promises action-packed drama and potential upsets. For those unable to attend in person, DAZN will offer a live PPV broadcast starting at 5:45 p.m. ET, with the main event expected to air later in the evening. This clash is more than just another fight—it’s a defining moment for two fighters determined to prove their mettle on the biggest stage.
The outcome of this bout could reshape the welterweight division and determine who will
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Originally published on CBS Sports on 2/21/2026
