Mario Barrios will defend his WBC welterweight title against Abel Ramos on the undercard of Jake Paul-Mike Tyson on November 15.
The ill-advised contest between Paul and Tyson, at the AT&T Stadium in Texas, was already on course to be supported by the rematch at super lightweight between Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano.
Barrios agreeing to fight Ramos will regardless at least delay potential plans for him to fight Manny Pacquiao in what – should it come to pass – could prove a similarly ill-advised comeback for the retired Filipino.
“I’m thrilled to be part of this once-in-a-lifetime event,” said Barrios, 29. “The fight on the Jake Paul versus Mike Tyson card is huge, with millions watching live on Netflix. Abel Ramos is a tough Mexican fighter, just like me, so I know it’ll be a hell of a fight in front of my Texas people at the Dallas Cowboys’ stadium.
“I’m also excited to showcase my indigenous roots on this global platform. Don’t miss this fight – it’s going to be war, Puro San Antonio!”
Ramos, 33 and like Barrios of Mexican-American descent, said of the fight that falls on Mexican Independence Day: “I’m very excited to be fighting for the WBC title and I’m looking forward to a great fight against Mario Barrios.
“He’s a warrior just like me and I’m going to give the fans at Cowboys Stadium and those watching around the world on Netflix an exciting fight on Friday, November 15th.”