Barrios (29-3, 18 KOs) last fought on February 21, when he lost his WBC welterweight title to Ryan Garcia by unanimous decision over twelve rounds. Garcia dropped Barrios in the opening round and won by scores of 119-108, 120-107, and 118-109.
The loss ended Barrios’ short run as champion and left his plans uncertain in the weeks that followed.
During the Nashville broadcast, Barrios said he intends to step away from the ring for a period before returning at super welterweight.
The change would move the 30-year-old into a deeper and physically stronger division. The 154-pound class includes established names such as Tim Tszyu and Sebastian Fundora, along with a number of younger contenders still trying to break into the title picture.
Barrios spent the past several years competing at welterweight after beginning his rise at 140 pounds earlier in his career. His run at 147 included victories over Yordenis Ugas and Fabian Maidana before the loss to Garcia.
Reaction on social media was mixed after the announcement aired. Some fans questioned the timing of the move and pointed to potential welterweight fights that could still be made, including a bout with Errol Spence Jr.
Others noted the size and punching power that define the 154-pound division, where many fighters are natural junior middleweights who have competed there their entire careers.
Barrios did not name an opponent or target date for his return, only confirming that his next fight is expected to take place at 154 pounds.
Moving up in weight can provide a fresh start, but the division he plans to enter has proven difficult for fighters who rely more on activity than knockout power.
Read the full article here