Photo by Cris Esqueda/Golden Boy/Getty Images

Ryan Garcia aims to succeed where Manny Pacquiao fell short in upcoming WBC title clash

Originally posted on HITC | By Harvey Leonard | Last updated Nov 20, 2025 12:38 PM ET

Ryan Garcia has announced his next fight.

The former WBA interim lightweight champion hasn’t recorded an official win since knocking out Oscar Duarte back in 2023.

His failed drug test led to his win over Devin Haney being changed to a no-contest. When he returned, Garcia was beaten by Rolly Romero in their Times Square bout for the vacant WBA (Regular) welterweight title.

The outspoken 27-year-old now claims he’ll be fighting for the “real” welterweight title in 2026.

Ryan Garcia set to challenge Mario Barrios for the WBC welterweight title

Ryan Garcia took to social media on Thursday to announce his next opponent. The Californian revealed that he will be facing Mario Barrios for the WBC welterweight title on February 21, though no location was mentioned for what will be his first shot at a win in the division.

Photo by Cris Esqueda/Golden Boy/Getty Images

Barrios will enter this fight after drawing with Manny Pacquiao back in July. “As promised the announcement of my next fight!” Garcia wrote on Instagram.

“I will be fighting for the 147-pound championship WBC.”

“Just wait and see the MAGIC @wbcboxing @wbcmoro.”

Mario Barrios vs. Manny Pacquiao ends in a split decision draw

When Garcia steps in the ring with Barrios next year, he’ll be looking to do what the legendary Pacquiao couldn’t.

The Filipino came out of retirement for one last run at a title, facing ‘El Azteca’ at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas this past July.

After 12 competitive rounds, two judges had it even at 114-114, while one gave a narrow win to Barrios. Of 16 prominent media members, 10 thought ‘PacMan’ had done enough to earn the victory.

While Barrios kept hold of his welterweight belt that night, he’s now gone two straight fights without a win after also drawing with Abel Ramos earlier in his reign.

This article first appeared on HITC and was syndicated with permission.

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