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Mario Barrios and Ryan Garcia to Clash for WBC Welterweight Title
The two popular boxers seek to end their recent winless streaks in a high-stakes title fight.
Feb. 18, 2026 at 11:31am
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WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios will defend his title against Ryan Garcia on February 21 in Las Vegas. Both fighters are looking to end lengthy winless stretches, with Barrios having not won since May 2024 and Garcia's last official victory coming in December 2023. The co-main event will feature Richardson Hitchins defending his IBF super lightweight title, while Gary Antuanne Russell puts his WBA super lightweight belt on the line in the first title fight of the night.
Why it matters
This is a high-profile matchup between two of the most popular boxers in the welterweight division, despite their recent struggles. The outcome could significantly impact the trajectory of their careers going forward, as both seek to regain their winning form and status as top contenders.
The details
Barrios, the defending champion, is coming off a pair of draws, including one against Manny Pacquiao in 2025. Garcia, meanwhile, is looking to bounce back from a unanimous decision loss to Rolando 'Rolly' Romero in his lone 2025 outing, which cost him the then-vacant WBA welterweight title. The co-main event will see Richardson Hitchins defend his IBF super lightweight title against Oscar Duarte, while Gary Antuanne Russell puts his WBA 140-pound belt on the line against undefeated Andy Hiraoka.
- The fight will take place on Saturday, February 21, 2026.
- The main event ringwalk is expected to be around 12 a.m. EST.
The players
Mario Barrios
The 30-year-old WBC welterweight champion, who has not won a fight since May 2024.
Ryan Garcia
The 27-year-old challenger, who is seeking his first official victory since December 2023.
Richardson Hitchins
The IBF super lightweight champion, who will defend his title on the undercard.
Gary Antuanne Russell
The WBA super lightweight champion, who will make the first defense of his title on the undercard.
What they’re saying
“10 days to go! #BarriosGarcia”
— Golden Boy Boxing (Twitter)
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 high-stakes title fight between two of the most popular welterweights represents a pivotal moment for both Barrios and Garcia, as they look to end their recent winless streaks and regain their status as top contenders in the division.
