Mario Barrios Hopeful For WBC Main Title After Win Over Yordenis Ugas

Mario Barrios believes he made a statement with his win on Saturday night.

Barrios was taking on Ugas in a battle of former world champions on Saturday at the T-Mobile Arena on the undercard of Canelo Alvarez vs. Jermell Charlo.

In the fight, Barrios dropped Ugas twice to win a decision and become the interim WBC welterweight champion.

“I’m sore but I’m full of excitement and joy right now,” said Barrios (h/t BoxingScene). “Everything from camp paid off tonight. I’m happy with my performance. I’ve always thought very highly of Ugas and I have even more respect for him now. He put up a hell of a fight and I’m thankful to him for the opportunity.”

In the second round, Mario Barrios landed a big shot that dropped Yordenis Ugas. That shot really changed the entire fight, and Barrios believes that was the difference.

“The first knockdown definitely set the tone because early on he caught me with a nice liver shot that slowed me down a little bit,” said Barrios. “Once I settled down and found that quick little jab, that’s when I was able to start picking up the pace.”

Ultimately, Mario Barrios continued to have success and was able to get the win to become the interim champ. With the victory, the hope for Barrios is to get the real WBC title next but is excited to see what the future holds.

“I want to take it further and contend for the main WBC title,” said Barrios. “I know that there are steps to get there. I’m going to sit down with my team and we’re going to see what’s next.”

With the win, Mario Barrios improved to 28-2 and is now on a two-fight win streak.

Who would you like to see Mario Barrios fight next?