Conor Benn Challenges Ryan Garcia for WBC Title

The biggest question is Benn's weight. He had not made the 147-pound welterweight limit for four and a half years, having fought at middleweight against Chris Eubank Jr and at 150 pounds in April. At Friday's weigh-in he came in at 146 pounds, half a pound heavier than Garcia, but according to the Daily Mail he regained 32 pounds 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 argues that such a severe cut will leave his opponent vulnerable, and claims Benn only earned the fight because of his surname. The two men also share an uncomfortable history: Benn's 2022 fight against Eubank was cancelled after two positive drug tests, and Garcia was suspended for a year after his 2024 win over Devin Haney was overturned. Both deny intentionally taking banned substances, and both have since rebuilt: Garcia lost to Rolando Romero in May 2025 before beating Barrios, while Benn lost to Eubank in April 2025 and avenged the defeat seven months later.

Most pundits interviewed by BBC Sport expect Garcia to win, citing his hand speed and power, and several predict an early stoppage; The Guardian adds that his left hook is most dangerous against opponents who come forward. Former champion Carl Frampton called it "Garcia's fight to lose", while promoter Bob Arum said Benn "doesn't even look recognisable" after the weight cut. Tony Bellew was a rare exception, picking Benn by knockout inside eight rounds. Benn has dismissed the doubts, saying the pressure rests on the champion.