In a significant turn of events in the boxing world, Conor Benn has publicly called out Ryan Garcia for a shot at the WBC welterweight title. This challenge comes on the heels of Benn’s impressive victory over Regis Prograis, where he won by unanimous decision with a score of 98-92 on all three judges’ scorecards.
As of now, Benn holds a record of 25 wins and 1 loss, with 14 of those victories coming by knockout. Meanwhile, Ryan Garcia’s record stands at 25 wins and 2 losses, boasting 20 KOs. Garcia previously captured the WBC title by defeating Mario Barrios in February, making this potential matchup even more compelling.
Conor Benn is currently ranked as the #1 WBC contender in the welterweight division and has expressed a desire to return to the 147-pound weight class. He has also signed a lucrative one-fight deal with Zuffa Boxing, reportedly worth upwards of $10 million, which adds to the stakes of this potential fight.
In a direct challenge, Benn stated, “Garcia, I want my belt. I want my belt. Keep my belt warm. September, let’s go.” Ryan Garcia responded affirmatively, saying, “I’m down. Garcia vs. Benn. Let’s do it.” This back-and-forth has ignited excitement among boxing fans in both the U.S. and the U.K.
The fight between Benn and Garcia could also involve drug testing protocols due to past issues with both fighters, adding another layer of complexity to the matchup. This would be Benn’s first fight under the Zuffa Boxing banner, marking a new chapter in his career.
As it stands, the boxing community is abuzz with anticipation for this potential clash. The implications for both fighters are significant, as a victory could solidify their legacies and impact their future bouts.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the exact date and location of the fight, but the urgency and excitement surrounding this matchup are palpable. Fans are eagerly awaiting further announcements as the boxing world prepares for what could be a monumental event.