Trainer Bob Santos has confirmed that Mario Barrios is planning a move to the 154-pound division following his recent defeat to Ryan Garcia, while also indicating he could step back into the role of head coach.
Speaking exclusively to World Boxing News, Santos addressed Barrios’ future, including the decision to move up in weight and how the former WBC welterweight champion could approach the next stage of his career.
Barrios enjoyed success at welterweight, winning the WBC world title and making several defenses before suffering the loss to Garcia.
“Mario won the WBC world title at 147 and had a few defenses,” Santos told WBN. “But I definitely think it’ll be best for him to move to 154.”
Barrios Heading to 154
The move to super welterweight could offer Barrios a fresh path following a tough night against Garcia, although Santos was careful not to criticize the strategy used during that fight.
Joe Goossen handled the corner duties on the night, a decision that raised some eyebrows given Santos’ long association with the fighter.
However, the veteran trainer refused to second-guess the events of the fight.
“It’s always easy for people to Monday morning quarterback,” Santos explained. “I wasn’t the head coach, and the only one that really knows would be Mario Barrios.
“How was he feeling that night? How was his body reacting on the night?”
“I’m not the head coach and I’m not the fighter, so I don’t think I’m in a position to second-guess anything.”
Pacquiao and Garcia Comparison
Barrios’ draw with Manny Pacquiao offered encouragement before the Garcia bout, but Santos stressed that the two fights were entirely different challenges.
“I think it’s totally two different things,” Santos said. “Manny Pacquiao and Ryan Garcia are totally two different styles, and they were at totally different points in their careers when we fought them. For me, there’s no comparison between the two fights.”
Santos Hints at Head Coach Return
Santos also indicated he could resume his role as Barrios’ lead trainer should the fighter decide to reunite with him ahead of the move to 154 pounds.
“If he wants me to become the head coach again, in twenty-something fights with me as the head coach he’s never lost,” Santos stated.
“If he determines for me to be the head coach again at 154, I definitely think I have a few tricks up my sleeve for those types of fighters.”
What Comes Next for Barrios
Before targeting any opponents at the new weight, Santos expects Barrios to tread slowly.
“I think he needs to take some time off, build his body to the 154-pound division, and then start the process with quality sparring,” Santos explained. “Then we’ll see what opportunities present themselves.”
Eyebrows were raised when Goossen was drafted in for the Garcia fight. Obviously, he knew Garcia from their short time together, but after the draw with Manny Pacquiao, sticking to that formula for Garcia appeared the safer play.
As it turned out, Barrios was not himself at all. Whether confused by the tactics or simply out of his depth, the performance many feared against Pacquiao eventually caught up with him against Garcia.
Without the punching power that many of the leading fighters at 154 pounds possess, Barrios will again have to rely on skill and ring intelligence if he is to capture a title in a third weight class.
With Santos around, the former WBC welterweight champion at least has a steady hand available should he need someone to step in as head coach.
The offer, it seems, has already been placed on the table for him.
About the Author
Phil Jay is the Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News (WBN) and a veteran boxing reporter with 15+ years of experience. He has interviewed world champions, broken international exclusives, and reported ringside since 2010. Read full bio.
