Mario Barrios training again, gearing up for next fight

Mario Barrios, who holds the WBA’s secondary “world” (regular) title at 140 pounds, doesn’t have a return officially set just yet, but the 25-year-old has made his way from Texas to California to begin preparing with trainer Virgil Hunter, indicating we may hear something soon.

“Leaving home early to start training camp with Virgil has been the game changer in my career,” said Barrios. “It’s a sacrifice that I feel needs to be made as enter the second half of my career. All the fights from here on out will be against top level opposition, and there is no room for error. Everything is on the line each and every time I step in the ring so I’m doing everything in my power to stay on top.”

Barrios (26-0, 17 KO) last fought on Oct. 31, blasting out over-matched Ryan Karl inside of six rounds on the Davis-Santa Cruz card in his hometown of San Antonio. There was talk between Barrios and Regis Prograis — who also fought on the Halloween card — in November, but nothing came of it, at least right then. The fight could still be an option, as the 140-pound division waits on the Josh Taylor-Jose Ramirez winner in May to crown a recognized undisputed champion.

“I know there are plenty of big names that for me to fight that the fans want to see,” he said. “After talking to my team, I’m excited about what lies ahead, and the possible names that have been presented. 2021 will be another monumental year in my career.”