Benn Challenges Garcia for WBC World Title

The main concern is Benn's weight. He had not made the 147-pound welterweight limit for four and a half years, because he had been fighting in heavier divisions. On Friday he weighed 146 pounds, but the Daily Mail reported that he put 32 pounds back on within about 12 hours. Benn told the BBC (British Broadcasting Corporation) that making weight felt like being "dragged down to the pits of hell". Garcia believes the cut will leave Benn weak, and claims Benn only got the fight because of his famous family name. Both men have failed drug tests in the past: Benn's 2022 fight with Chris Eubank Jr was cancelled, and Garcia was suspended for a year in 2024. Both deny taking banned substances on purpose.

Most experts interviewed by BBC Sport expect Garcia to win because of his speed and power, and several predict an early finish. Carl Frampton called it "Garcia's fight to lose", and promoter Bob Arum said Benn "doesn't even look recognisable" after the weight cut. Tony Bellew was one of few to pick Benn, predicting a knockout inside eight rounds. Benn says the pressure is on the champion.