Mark Anthony Barriga gets second shot at world title

FILE– Mark Anthony Barriga.

MANILA, Philippines—Mark Anthony Barriga will get another crack at a world title when he takes on Puerto Rican champion Jonathan Gonzalez on June 24 in Florida, USA.

Barriga’s latest shot at a major crown comes nearly four years after losing his first try at a belt.

“I have fought in the Olympics, for a world title, and was ranked number one in the world, but this is the most important fight of my career,” Barriga told Bad Left Hook.

“La Bomba is a world champion for a reason. He is a great opponent, and this is going to be an exciting fight.”

The London Olympian dropped a split decision to Carlos Licona for the vacant IBF mini flyweight title in December 2018.

After the sorry loss, Barriga went on hiatus before deciding to come back last year.

The 28-year-old Barriga (11-1, 2KOs) beat Junuel Lacar in his ring return back in March 2021 in Mandaue and topped Ramel Antaran seven months later in General Santos City.

Gonzalez (25-3, 14KOs), meanwhile, is making his first title defense since edging Mexico’s Elwin Soto last October to win the WBO light flyweight title.