Mark Barriga offered another world title fight, but contemplating retirement

Filipino Olympian Mark Anthony Barriga is contemplating retirement despite an offer to fight for a world title again following his unanimous decision loss against WBO world light flyweight champion Jonathan Gonzalez earlier today at Osceola Heritage Park in Kissimmee, USA.

“After the fight, the WBO President came to me. They want me to go down to 105 pounds and give me a world title fight again. That came from him, but I would have to think about it because 105 is too low for me and this might be my last fight,” Barriga revealed in a Facebook video.

Barriga, 29, was off to a good start against Gonzalez as he displayed his renowned slick defense and fast combinations. The champion however fought with urgency in the later rounds which proved vital in winning the fight as all three judges scored the bout for him after twelve three-minute rounds.

Though the Filipino came up short, he nevertheless managed to impress and gain the respect of many fight fans worldwide.

Unfortunately for them, Barriga said today might be the last time that he sets foot inside the ring.

“I want to focus on my business. The truth is even without boxing I would live. Because of my passion and desire to represent the Philippines, I do it even when my life is on the line. But for now, after 20 years of boxing I think this is the right time,” Barriga stated.

—JMB, GMA News