Barrios (29-3, 18 KOs) last fought on February 21 when he lost his WBC welterweight title to Ryan Garcia by unanimous decision over twelve rounds. Garcia dropped Barrios in the opening round and won by scores of 119-108, 120-107 and 118-109.
The loss ended Barrios’ short run as champion and left his plans uncertain in the following weeks.
During the Nashville broadcast, Barrios said he intends to step away from the ring for a period of time before returning to super welterweight.
The change would move the 30-year-old into a deeper and physically stronger division. The 154-pound class includes established names like Tim Tszyu and Sebastian Fundora, along with a number of younger contenders still trying to break into the title picture.
Barrios has competed at welterweight for the past few years after starting out at 140 pounds earlier in his career. His run at 147 included wins over Yordenis Ugas and Fabian Maidana before the loss to Garcia.
Reaction on social media was mixed after the announcement aired. Some fans have questioned the timing of the move, pointing to potential welterweight fights that could still take place, including a fight with Errol Spence Jr.
Others noted the size and punching power that defines the 154-pound division, where many fighters are natural junior middleweights who have competed there their entire careers.
Barrios did not name an opponent or target date for his return, only confirming that his next fight is expected to take place at 154 pounds.
Moving up in weight could offer a fresh start, but the division he plans to enter has been difficult for fighters who rely more on activity than knockout power.
