Ryan Garcia v Mario Barrios undercard struck by withdrawal just hours before fight

Richardson Hitchins has pulled out of his IBF super lightweight world title bout against Oscar Duarte due to illness.

The American’s decision came just hours before he was set to come to blows with Duarte on the undercard of Ryan Garcia v Mario Barrios.

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As per IBF rules, both fighters were due to weigh in for a second time on the morning of the fight, with neither allowed to weigh 10 pounds heavier from the official weigh-in on Friday.

Both Hitchins and Duarte tipped the scales at 140.0 lbs.

However, according to The Ring, Hitchins became violently ill after the weigh-ins.

Hitchins was set to make his second defence of the championship, which he won in December 2024 via a split decision victory over Australia’s Liam Paro.

The 28-year-old subsequently vanquished another Australian, this time George Kambosos Jr, last June to maintain his crown.

He had not fought since.

With the bout now off, it means fans will be treated to one fewer world title showdown on the Garcia v Barrios card.

However, those inside the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas and watching around the globe won’t be entirely robbed of some championship action.

Gary Russell and Andy Hiraoka will contest for the WBA junior welterweight world title.

Hiraoka enters the night boasting an unblemished 24-0 record, with his last fight coming in September 2024 when he stopped Ismael Barroso.

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As for Russell, he suffered the first loss of his professional career in June 2024 against Alberto Puello but bounced back last March with a wide decision win over Jose Valenzuela.

Garcia’s clash with Barrios tops the bill as they square off for the latter’s WBC welterweight strap.

The man dubbed ‘King Ry’ is seeking his first win since December 2023 having had a win over Devin Haney overturned to a no contest before suffering a loss to Rolly Romero last May.

Barrios enters on the back of two draws, the last of which was against boxing icon Manny Pacquiao.