From Debut to Development
In the world of mixed martial arts, every fighter has a story a path filled with sacrifice, discipline and an unbreakable drive to evolve. For Barry Irausquin, that story is still being written. Fighting out of Fight IQ, Barry represents a new generation of athletes who combine physical strength with sharp strategy, constant learning and true fighting spirit.
Barry stepped into the professional MMA scene on 27 October 2024, making his pro debut at Levels Fight League 14. It marked the beginning of his journey on the big stage a moment that many fighters dream of, but few achieve. Stepping into the cage as a professional is more than just a fight; it’s a statement of intent.
Competing in the bantamweight division, Barry carries the speed, agility and explosiveness that define one of MMA’s most dynamic weight classes.
A Tough Night at LFL 20 and the Lessons That Follow
On 2 November 2025, Barry returned to the LFL cage at Levels Fight League 20. It was a night that tested him, pushing his resolve to its limits. He suffered a loss by triangle choke at 1:20 of Round 1, a result no fighter wants, but one every fighter experiences at some point in their career.
Not Finished, Only Getting Better
What sets Barry apart isn’t just his talent; it’s his mindset. Instead of stepping back, he stepped forward. At Fight IQ, he has doubled down on his efforts , sharpening his technique, refining his strategy and pushing himself through every round, drill and sparring session.
He knows the journey is long and he’s far from done.
Outside of his own progression, Barry also invests his time in the next generation. At Fight IQ, he trains and coaches kids, sharing the fundamentals of the sport along with deeper lessons: confidence, respect and discipline. For many young athletes he isn’t just a trainer, he’s a role model.
The Story Continues
Even though Barry Irausquin’s professional career is still young, his journey is far from over. The loss at LFL20 was a tough moment, but it also became a source of motivation. The support from the people around him reminded him that setbacks do not define a fighter, they reveal where growth is possible. With renewed confidence and a clearer focus on what needs sharpening, Barry is turning challenges into strength as he prepares for the next step in his career.
“After my loss at LFL20 I was heartbroken. But the belief and support I got from my coaches, my teammates and my family gave me a feeling of inspiration I had never felt before. Despite the setbacks, they can see my potential and my talent. It’s all just a few mistakes that needed to be fixed. It might be surprising to some, but my belief in myself right now is greater than ever. And I know that the mistakes I have made that cost me my fights are mistakes I can fix with a little bit more sharpness and awareness of dangerous situations in a fight.”
In 2026, Barry plans to rewrite his story. He has faced roadblocks and setbacks, but the year ahead will be one of growth, resilience and self-inspiration. He is committed to rising after hard moments, stepping back into the cage and proving to himself exactly what he is capable of. The journey continues and the best of Barry Irausquin is still to come.