WBC welterweight champion Ryan Garcia is set to defend his title against British contender Conor Benn on September 12 at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. This marks Benn's maiden opportunity to compete for a world championship.
Garcia, who secured the belt in February by defeating Mario Barrios, will make his first defense of the title. Benn, 29, earned his position as the WBC's number one challenger in December, despite his last welterweight bout occurring in February 2024.
The fight's promoter, Zuffa Boxing, which receives backing from UFC chief Dana White and Saudi Arabian capital, expressed enthusiasm for the matchup. White commented that the fight is anticipated to be "awesome," noting that the fighters have been engaging in social media exchanges. The event is strategically scheduled for the weekend before Mexican Independence Day, a significant date for Garcia, who is of American and Mexican heritage.