Tensions flared at Thursday’s press conference in Los Angeles as Ryan Garcia and veteran trainer Joe Goossen traded sharp words ahead of Garcia’s February 21 showdown with Mario Barrios at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. The bout headlines “The Ring: High Stakes” on DAZN and places Garcia opposite his former coach, now working Barrios’ corner.
Garcia and Goossen worked together for three fights before splitting after Garcia’s seventh-round knockout loss to Gervonta Davis in 2023. That history resurfaced quickly, with Garcia accusing Goossen of betrayal and presenting him with a shirt reading “I’m a traitor,” which Goossen tossed back. Garcia said the split hurt deeply, particularly Goossen’s absence after the Davis defeat, and claimed the situation has fueled his motivation for this fight.
Goossen, who has previously faced former fighters in opposing corners, dismissed the personal angle and said his focus remains solely on preparing Barrios to win. He downplayed any tactical advantage gained from training Garcia in the past, stressing that resentment plays no role in his approach and that his priority is improving the fighter currently under his guidance.
Barrios enters the bout making the third defense of his WBC welterweight title. He was elevated to full champion after winning the interim belt against Yordenis Ugas, then defending it versus Fabian Maidana. His most recent outing ended in a controversial majority draw with Manny Pacquiao last July.
Garcia will be making just his second appearance at welterweight after an upset loss to Rolando Romero in May. Now trained by his father, Henry Garcia, Garcia promised a far sharper performance, saying he is fully locked in and determined to capture his first world title at 147 pounds.
Watch Mario Barrios & Joe Goossen LOCKED IN Ahead Of Ryan Garcia Fight:
Image Credit: The RIng