Although Hitchins is fully entrenched in the 140-pound division as the IBF titleholder, he’s still somewhat of an interested observer in “The Ring: High Stakes” show headliner because he’s expressed interest in an eventual move to 147 pounds.

Barrios is coming into the contest off a majority draw with Manny Pacquiao in July, while Garcia is coming off a unanimous decision defeat against Rolly Romero, a fight in which he was dropped and looked lackluster.

“Ryan is going to have less respect for Mario, because I don't feel Barrios is punching like Rolly,” said Hitchins. “Barrios is not Rolly Romero. Rolly shook Ryan and knocked him down. Rolly’s power made Ryan hesitant. Ryan was waiting a lot. Barrios doesn't have the power that Rolly possesses. Rolly is stronger, and that tamed Ryan early. We should see a lot more out of Ryan Garcia this time around.”

Barrios is listed as a plus-175 betting underdog, while Garcia is a minus-225 favorite, according to DraftKings.

Hitchins is an even bigger betting favorite in his bout, listed at minus-550, while Duarte is at plus-380. Hitchins (20-0, 8 KOs) is expected to lean on a sharp jab and outbox the relentless power puncher in Duarte (30-2-1, 23 KOs).

“Duarte is hard-hitting and a pressure fighter and has built himself up with good wins to get the opportunity to fight for a world title,” said Hitchins. “I'm excited to be fighting on the biggest stage yet as a professional.”

Hitchins defended the title he took from Liam Pario in December 2024 for the first time in June, stopping George Kambosos in eight rounds.

Duarte is riding a four-fight winning streak since getting stopped by Garcia inside eight rounds in 2023. Duarte scored a majority decision win against Kenneth Sims in August.

DAZN will distribute “The Ring: High Stakes” to non-subscribers on pay-per-view for $69.99 in the United States and £24.99 in the United Kingdom. The show is included in DAZN’s Ultimate monthly plan for subscribers ($44.99; £24.99).