Ryan Garcia vs Conor Benn: Eddie Hearn predicts big puncher advantage

Ryan Garcia will defend his WBC welterweight title against Conor Benn on September 12 at Las Vegas' T-Mobile Arena, with promoter Eddie Hearn favoring Garcia's power. The 27-year-old Garcia claimed the belt by defeating Mario Barrios in February, bouncing back from a 2025 loss to Rolando Romero.

What did Eddie Hearn say?

Hearn questioned Benn's ability to compete at 147lbs, noting his struggles in previous fights. 'He looked terrible against Regis Prograis at 150lbs,' Hearn told K.O. Artist Sports. 'Making 147lbs should be brutal for him now. I don’t think he has power or the chin down there.'

Why it matters for Ryan Garcia

Garcia, now considered a world-level fighter, faces Benn, who has yet to prove his top-class credentials. Benn's recent wins came against older opponents like Chris Eubank Jr and Regis Prograis. Hearn believes Garcia's sharpness and punching power give him the edge.

What comes next?

The fight, co-promoted by Golden Boy and Zuffa Boxing, promises excitement despite Hearn's doubts about Benn. 'Conor’s got big balls-he’ll have a right go,' Hearn said. The bout follows a public fallout between Hearn and Benn, who left Matchroom for Zuffa Boxing earlier this year.