Conor Benn has brushed off concerns about his ability to make the welterweight limit for his upcoming bout against Ryan Garcia, characterizing his opponent as an "insecure" and "spoiled brat." The British boxer, preparing for a world title fight in Las Vegas, faces questions about his capacity to return to 147 pounds after campaigning at middleweight.
Benn has not competed at welterweight in over four years, having moved up divisions for his two-fight rivalry with Chris Eubank Jr. Now, facing Garcia for the World Boxing Council (WBC) title, he must cut back down significantly. "I know it's going to be hard, but I believe I can do it," Benn stated in comments to Daily Mail Sport. "Ultimately, my discipline will prevail, and I'll continue to show why I can do what people say I can't do."
The impact of the substantial weight cut on Benn's strength and power is anticipated to be a central factor in the fight. Garcia has suggested this move back down could leave Benn vulnerable, a notion Benn dismisses. "You think I'm worried about what a lightweight can do to me? I'm not concerned about one little thing he brings to the table… that silly left hook of his is useless," Benn asserted.
Benn's recent career trajectory has been largely defined by his intense rivalry with Eubank Jr. Their first encounter in April 2025, fought above 160 pounds, was the culmination of a long-standing animosity between their fathers. Eubank Jr. won a close decision, with Benn later reflecting that the occasion and emotion had affected his performance. Seven months later, Benn secured a victory in their rematch, leveling the series.
When comparing the atmosphere to the Eubank fights, Benn stated, "This is nothing like the Eubank fight. The Eubank fight, there was nothing pleasant or friendly or fake about the Eubank fight. There was a lot more raw emotion in that fight and I let that get the better of me the first time. That won't happen here."
Garcia has engaged in verbal sparring with Benn, but Benn appears unimpressed with his opponent's demeanor. "He just carries on like a spoiled brat, like a big child who throws his toys out of the pram," Benn commented. "He's a little bit sensitive, highly emotional, and a little bit insecure."
Both fighters have had past issues with anti-doping regulations. Benn's 2022 bout with Eubank Jr. was canceled following two adverse findings for clomifene, which he has consistently denied intentionally taking. Garcia also returned an adverse finding for ostarine after his 2024 win over Devin Haney, a result he also contested as unintentional. At the press conference for their upcoming fight, neither fighter dwelled on potential PED use by the other.
Garcia has also questioned Benn's readiness for this level of competition. Benn countered by pointing to Garcia's past performances, including his losses to Gervonta Davis and Rolando Romero, and his subsequent title win against William Zepeda. "He quit against Tank Davis. He got outclassed by Rolly [Romero], and then got a world title shot with Barrios," Benn stated. "Then there is me. Stepping up to fight the contenders up at middleweight, fight of the year up at middleweight, avenging my loss. Two big stadium shows. Just come off beating a two-time former world champion and having to make 147, which again I ain't made in four years in six weeks."
Despite the external doubts, Benn remains confident in his ability to succeed. "If I'd listened to everyone that didn't believe in me, I'd be nowhere," he said. "But I continue to believe in me. And that's all that matters… you believing in yourself."
For Benn, the immediate challenge remains successfully making the welterweight limit before facing Garcia. He acknowledges the difficulty but sees the scrutiny as a source of motivation. "Continue to doubt me because doubt fuels the fire."