Can I start by asking you how you got into boxing?
One of my uncles, Miguel, asked me if I wanted to go to the boxing gym. At that time I was very into soccer but as soon as I walked into the gym I completely fell in love.
You have faced many world class opponents. Who would you say was the toughest that you have ever fought?
Naseem Hamed was definitely the toughest. He came from beating everyone in the division and was a hard puncher with a complicated style to decipher.
A lot of people talk about your trilogy with Erik Morales. How do you think it compares with other great trilogies in boxing?
I don’t think it compares to other trilogies. Barrera vs Erik will always be the best trilogy in boxing history, from the fights to the story behind it there’s nothing like it.
What would you say was your career defining fight and why?
Naseem Hamed. People said I was done and the odds were against me in every way but I pulled through proving I was still champion.
If there was anybody in history that you could fight, who would it be and why?
I don’t like this type of “What if?” questions. I fought against the fighters I needed to fight. I fought the best and I stay with that.
What is your opinion of the state that boxing is in now? Do you think it is in a good place or are there some changes that you would make if you had the chance?
Boxing is in a great place right now. There’s a lot of great champions and upcoming ones as well. I wouldn’t make a change to the sport. I love it and I love the evolution of it.
You had an exhibition bout in June with Jesus Soto Karass. Can you tell us why you are returning for another one on November 20th against Daniel Ponce De Leon?
I’m retiring to help Johnny Tapias foundation. This fight is for charity and nothing makes me happier than helping out.
How much do you think you have left to give to boxing?
Outside of the ring I have a lot to give. I have a podcast (Un Round Más) with Erik Morales where we give our opinion and talk about boxing and our anecdotes in the sport. In the ring I did what I had to do in that moment.
