I think most people appreciate the skillset of Wahid. And he's racked up a decent enough resume. The problem is he hasn't tested himself at the highest level. At SFW he never faced Loma when it was clear that Loma was the best in the division. Up at LWW he never faced the real champion. Even at LW now there's a very clear top 3 in Loma, Wahid and Shakur. Loma is top of that pile and Wahid really needs that fight next to cement his status.
Said exactly the same thing in another thread, you only ever hear about a fighter relying on power. You never hear about a fighter relying on the jab or their footwork, the fact is you use your strengths whatever they may be, tanks is his power. Imagine having that power and trying to out point your opponent, he is confident in his power and his chin too. I can’t stand tank but he is not getting the credit he deserves.
I doubt he was ahead against Barrios, i’ve had him losing or close fights. That said even if he loses rounds he is making these guys use so much energy to move around that its inevitable they get tired.