Ryan Garcia says he plans to face Conor Benn in Las Vegas this August following his recent WBC welterweight title win.
Garcia, 27, is coming off a dominant victory over Mario Barrios that saw him claim the WBC welterweight belt, a performance widely viewed as a statement from the often-controversial fighter. In the aftermath, Garcia has been linked with several potential opponents, including Shakur Stevenson, but appears to have identified Benn as his next target.
“It’s going to be in August,” Garcia said of his next bout, according to a livestream broadcast. “We’re gonna have it in Vegas. His name’s Conor Benn, from the UK … We’re gonna eat that up.”
Garcia added: “Conor’s about to get blasted.”
Benn recently returned to action following a high-profile signing with Zuffa Boxing, earning a decision victory over Regis Prograis on a Netflix card. Despite criticism of the performance from some observers, the win extends Benn’s streak and leaves him a free agent heading into potential negotiations.
No official contract has been announced for a Garcia vs Benn bout, and Garcia’s comments came outside of a formal promotional setting. However, the proposed matchup would represent a significant clash between two prominent names in the welterweight division, with further confirmation or details expected in the coming weeks.
Garcia’s victory over Barrios marked a return to form and secured his status as a world champion, while Benn’s recent activity and profile continue to position him for major fights in the division.
