Mario Barrios (5-0, 2 KOs) is coming off an impressive first round knockout, a fight that took place at the Fantasy Springs Casino in Indo, Ca. Standing 6’0 feet tall, Barrios has all the natural gifts to become something special in super-bantamweight division and on. Barrios talks about the present state of his career.
What age did you start boxing and why did you decide to turn pro at such a young age?
Mario Barrios: I started boxing at age 7 and fell in love with the sport the first time I stepped in the gym. After fighting in the amateurs for all those years I felt it was in my best interest to turn pro at age 18. I figured I can start making an income now as opposed to later on in my career. I love fighting in the pros because every time you step in the ring gets you one step closer to fighting for a world title which is the ultimate goal.
You’re very tall for the super-bantamweight division. How long do you see yourself fighting at 122lbs?
Mario Barrios: I’m only 19 years old so I feel I can make the weight for a few more fights. The goal is to keep fighting at super-bantamweight until my body can’t make the weight anymore. I’ve already fought at featherweight so the transition will not be a problem.
You’re managed by Al Haymon and advised by Luis Decubas Jr. and Bob Santos. How do you feel about having such a powerful group of people supporting your career?
Mario Barrios: I feel I have the best management team in boxing. Al Haymon is a man who takes care of his fighters and I just want to live up to my potential. Bob Santos and Luis Decubas Jr. are always looking out for my best interest and I know together we can go to the top with Al Haymon. It’s a great team, no doubt.
What are your goals for the rest of the 2014 year?
Mario Barrios: I just want to stay busy and keep learning with every fight. If I can get a few more fights by the end of the year it will be great. I feel I’m ready to step up to six round fights. I’m just going to let my team do their job and I’ll be ready to fight when my name is called.
Who are some of the fighters you liked growing up till now?
Mario Barrios: Julio Chavez Sr. and Oscar De La Hoya were fighters I watched. Diego Corrales was a tall fighter so I like looking at some of his fights as well. Right now I like watching Robert Guerrero and Manny Pacquiao.
When can we expect to see you fight again?
Mario Barrios: Sometime in September I should be back in the ring. Hopefully I can fight on a card in Texas near San Antonio where I’m from. I love fighting in front of my hometown fans, but I’ll fight anywhere. I just love to fight.
