Ryan Garcia Confident He Can Knock Out Taller Opponent Barrios

Garcia believes his history of success against taller fighters will lead to a "disgusting" knockout of WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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Ryan Garcia is set to challenge WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios, who stands six feet tall - taller than the 5'9" Garcia. However, Garcia believes this height advantage will actually work in his favor, as he claims to have a history of knocking out taller opponents in sparring and previous fights. Garcia is confident his power and ability to hit taller fighters will lead to a "disgusting" knockout of Barrios on February 21.

Why it matters

This fight represents a unique challenge for Garcia, as he has rarely faced opponents taller than him in his professional career. Barrios' size could pose problems, but Garcia believes his past success against tall fighters will give him the edge. The outcome of this fight could have major implications for Garcia's future as he looks to capture a welterweight title.

The details

Garcia has only fought one professional opponent taller than him - Cesar Alan Valenzuela, whom he defeated by third-round TKO in 2017. Despite this, Garcia claims he has always done better against taller fighters in sparring, and expects that to translate to his fight with Barrios. Garcia believes Barrios' height will make him an easier target to land his powerful punches.

  • The Garcia vs. Barrios fight is scheduled for February 21, 2026.
  • Garcia last fought in 2023, losing to Rolando 'Rolly' Romero for the vacant WBA welterweight title.

The players

Ryan Garcia

A 24-year-old American boxer who has held the WBC interim lightweight title. He is moving up to welterweight to challenge WBC champion Mario Barrios.

Mario Barrios

The current WBC welterweight champion, standing at 6 feet tall. He will be defending his title against the shorter Ryan Garcia.

Joe Goossen

A legendary boxing trainer who previously worked with Ryan Garcia, but is now training Barrios for this fight, leading to tensions between the two fighters.

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What they’re saying

“If history repeats itself and patterns show, I knock out these type of taller people in disgusting fashion.”

— Ryan Garcia (DAZN Boxing)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.