WBC mandatory challenger claims the deal is ready and says Ryan Garcia has gone quiet during negotiations
Conor Benn says a world title fight with Ryan Garcia is waiting on one final step: Garcia’s signature. Speaking in Washington, D.C., Benn claimed the American star has gone quiet as negotiations continue for a proposed welterweight showdown
Benn has emerged as the WBC welterweight mandatory challenger and has been pushing for a shot at Garcia’s title later this year. A victory would hand the Essex fighter his first world championship after rebuilding momentum with back-to-back high-profile wins.
Earlier this year, Benn moved up to 160 pounds to outpoint former light welterweight champion Regis Prograis over 12 rounds. Before that, he avenged his previous defeat to Chris Eubank Jr by earning a unanimous decision victory in their rematch, settling one of British boxing’s most talked-about rivalries.
Benn claimed Garcia had gone quiet as discussions continue over a potential showdown.
“I haven’t spoken to him. He’s gone missing. So all I need him to do is sign the contract so we can get the fight locked in and give everyone here one hell of a fight, and a potential other fight of the year,” said Conor at the recent Washington D.C event.
Benn’s comments come amid conflicting reports surrounding the bout. Garcia previously indicated that the fight could take place in Las Vegas in September. However, Golden Boy Promotions chairman Oscar De La Hoya has publicly stated that he has not been involved in any negotiations and has reportedly issued a cease-and-desist letter to Zuffa Boxing regarding talks conducted without his company’s participation.
Should a deal with Ryan fail to materialize, Benn has other options at welterweight. One possibility is a domestic clash with Jack Catterall, who currently holds the WBA’s secondary title and is also seeking a route toward a full world championship opportunity.
Benn remains focused on Ryan and the chance to capture the first world title of his professional career.
@RyanGarcia ✍️ pic.twitter.com/nRx1iIsiVl
— Conor Nigel Benn (@ConorNigel) June 13, 2026