THE star potential of Chavez Barrientes has shone bright since his debut in 2019, but now the Hawaii-born youngster seeks to emerge as a world title threat and top the efforts of Angelo Leo in this weekend’s fight against Sharone Carter.
Barrientes, 10-0 (6 KOs), has hardly dropped a round since turning over in Mexico as a 16-year-old and with early experience in the tank, ‘The Beast’ feels ready to make an impression on the big stage in the super-bantamweight scene.
Tonight, on the Ferreira-Ferreyra undercard, Barrientes is matched with Sharone Carter, 14-11-1(3 KOs), and told Boxing News that he promises to deliver ‘explosive boxing’.
“You’re going to see sharp, explosive boxing. I’m calculated with my jab, I stay composed, and I pick my shots with power and precision. I’m not out there just to win—I’m out there to dominate. Expect a complete fighter with a high IQ and bad intentions.”
For 34-year-old southpaw Carter, this will not be the first time that he has shared the ring with a Barrientes, having faced Chavez’s twin brother, Angel, back in May 2023.
That contest ended in controversial fashion, with Carter being disqualified after twice tackling Angel to the canvas, and Chavez went on to explain how that fight will serve him well both tactically and motivationally.
“That fight didn’t end the way it should’ve, and I’m carrying that with me into the ring. I’m not just fighting for me—I’m fighting to get that DQ blemish back for my brother. There’s a little more fire behind this one.
“Angel’s been a huge help. He knows firsthand what Carter brings – his rhythm, his awkwardness, and his mindset when things don’t go his way. We’ve studied that fight together, and having someone who’s been in there with Carter gives me a real edge.”
Meanwhile, Carter has also previously gone the distance with highly rated two-division and reigning world champion, Angelo Leo, 26-1 (12 KOs), giving Barrientes the opportunity to outshine Leo by doing what he couldn’t and halting Carter before advancing to the elite level.
“Yes, that’s the goal, [to knock Carter out]. Leo couldn’t stop him, but I believe I can. I’m not going to force it, but if the opening comes, I’m going to capitalise. I want to show that I’m not just on that level—I’m a real threat to everyone in this division.
“[The aim for the rest of the year is to] stay active, stay sharp, and climb the rankings. I want two or three more fights this year and to finish 2025 knocking on the door of a world title. This is a breakout year for me, and it starts June 7.”
