Mike Coppinger says Ryan Garcia’s WBC welterweight title defense against mandatory challenger Conor Benn is close to being finalized for Las Vegas
Ryan Garcia’s first defense of his WBC welterweight title against mandatory challenger Conor Benn is moving closer to becoming official, with the proposed September 12 showdown in Las Vegas now nearing completion. Insider Mike Coppinger says negotiations are progressing positively and the fight is in the process of being finalized.
“I expect it to happen for sure. I hear everything is tracking very well, positively, and Ryan Garcia has said September 12th in Las Vegas. I’m told it’s in the process of being finalized for that date and location. Ryan Garcia vs. Conor Benn. Two big punchers. I’m excited,” Coppinger said to Zuffa Boxing.
Garcia had previously stated that September 12 in Las Vegas was the target for his fight with Benn, but Coppinger’s comments provide the strongest indication yet that the event is nearing the finish line.
The matchup would headline one of the first major cards promoted under the Zuffa Boxing banner. Garcia would make the first defense of the WBC welterweight title he captured earlier this year, while Benn would receive an immediate shot at a world championship after joining the new promotion.
Although the fight has not yet been officially announced, there appears to be little doubt that both sides expect it to move forward. The remaining work centers on completing the final details before the event can be formally unveiled.
The contest would match two aggressive punchers with large fan followings, making it one of the more commercially attractive fights available at welterweight. For Garcia, it represents the beginning of his reign as champion. For Benn, it offers the opportunity to become a world titleholder in what would be the biggest fight of his career.
If finalized, the September 12 card would give Zuffa Boxing another marquee event as the promotion continues building its roster and schedule. With Coppinger indicating negotiations are progressing smoothly, an official announcement could now be close.