Las Vegas, NV – In a stunning display of skill and determination, Texas native Mario Barrios made a triumphant return to the boxing ring on Saturday night. One year after suffering his first career losses to the likes of Gervonta “Tank” Davis and Keith Thurman, Barrios put on a masterful performance against former WBA welterweight champion Yordenis Ugas. This victory marked a significant turning point in Barrios’ career, solidifying his comeback as he outclassed the Cuban fighter on the undercard of the much-anticipated showdown between Canelo Alvarez and Jermell Charlo at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
Mario Barrios, now 27-2 in his professional career, showcased remarkable maturity in the ring, attributed in large part to his recent reunion with his former longtime coach, Bob Santos. Throughout the bout, Barrios exhibited patience, skill, and a strategic approach. He capitalized on the early rounds by effectively utilizing his jab to control the pace before cranking up the aggression in the latter half of the fight.
The turning point of the match came in the second round when Barrios sent shockwaves through the arena by dropping Ugas with a stiff jab. As the fight progressed, Ugas found himself battling not only Barrios but also the swelling of his right eye, which threatened to close entirely. Despite entering the ring as a nearly 3-1 favorite, Ugas struggled to keep up with his younger opponent, and the age gap became increasingly apparent as the rounds went on.
The final verdict was a unanimous decision in favor of Mario Barrios, with scores of 117-108, 118-107, and 118-107. However, the scores do not fully capture the intensity and competitive spirit of the fight. Ugas’ right eye required three separate visits from the ringside doctor, and at one point, the referee considered stopping the fight due to the swelling and damage sustained by Ugas.
Speaking to reporters post-fight, a triumphant Barrios expressed his desire to continue climbing the welterweight ranks, stating, “I think it definitely set the tone… Once I hit that quick little jab, I was able to start setting the pace. I want to contend for the main WBC title. I know there are steps to get there. I’m going to be patient.”
With this victory, Mario Barrios claimed the WBC interim welterweight championship, solidifying his status as a formidable force in the division. His impressive 27-2 record and consecutive wins since his two career losses speak volumes about his resilience and commitment to reaching the top of the welterweight division.
On the other side of the ring, Yordenis Ugas faces the challenge of back-to-back losses in his first appearance since losing the WBA welterweight championship to Errol Spence Jr. in April 2022. At 37 years old, Ugas will need to regroup and refocus if he hopes to regain his former glory in the competitive world of professional boxing.
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