Sports
Ryan Garcia returns to boxing’s big time as he accepts fight challenge from Conor Benn
Ryan Garcia has publicly accepted Conor Benn‘s challenge for a potential stadium fight in the United Kingdom, setting the stage for what could become one of the most commercially significant matchups available to either fighter.
The exchange unfolded on social media, where Benn issued a direct proposal and Garcia responded promptly, indicating his readiness to face the British welterweight on his home soil.
Ryan Garcia and Jon Jones clash after refused handshake
Benn, holding a record of 24-1 with 14 knockouts, extended the challenge only days after his unanimous decision victory over Chris Eubank Jr. in their rematch at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on November 15.
The bout, contested under specific weight stipulations, nonetheless elevated Benn‘s profile and reinforced his status as a major attraction within the UK boxing market.
“Your head’s next then. We can run it here in a stadium. I’m the money man. Come get it!!” Benn posted on Twitter.
Ryan Garcia responds with dig
Garcia, who has maintained strong market appeal despite competitive setbacks, accepted without reservation.
“I’m up 2-0 on Mr. Eddie Hearn. I would love to make it 3-0 and head to the UK. [It’s] always been a dream of mine. LET’S RUN IT,” Garcia replied.
His message signaled both an interest in expanding his international presence and a continuation of his public rivalry with promoter Eddie Hearn.
Before Benn directed his attention toward Garcia, he had expressed plans to pursue WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios in March 2026.
He described that potential fight as an opportunity to “tick a box,” framing a world-title challenge as a key target in his career progression. The recent shift toward Garcia, however, indicates a prioritization of financial upside over immediate championship aspirations.
Why the fight may not actually go ahead
A fight between Benn and Barrios would require Benn to return to the welterweight limit of 147 pounds.
He has competed at 154 and 160 pounds for the past three years, and the process of cutting back down presents physical uncertainties.
Observers have questioned how effectively he could manage the weight reduction after such an extended period above the limit. Any difficulties during that transition could diminish his performance against a champion with established strength at the weight.
The prospect of facing Garcia avoids that scenario and introduces substantially greater commercial potential. Garcia remains one of the sport’s most visible figures, with a global following that can elevate events to stadium scale.
Pairing him with Benn-already a significant draw in the UK-creates a matchup capable of generating major revenue without the inherent risks associated with a title fight against Barrios.
Garcia‘s willingness to travel also increases the likelihood of negotiations advancing. His expressed interest in competing in the UK aligns with the promotional advantages of staging a high-profile event before a large domestic audience.
For Benn, such a matchup provides a path to a marquee fight that could surpass the financial value of a championship challenge.
No formal agreement has been finalized, and key contract details-including weight, venue, and promotional arrangements-remain to be negotiated.
Nonetheless, the public declarations from both fighters indicate a growing momentum toward arranging a high-stakes, internationally significant contest that would attract substantial attention across the boxing landscape.
