Ryan Garcia finally showed up to stare down Conor Benn.
There’s bad blood between the talented young pugilists, who will throw down this weekend (Sat., Sept. 12, 2026) from Las Vegas, Nevada. Garcia’s WBC Welterweight title will be on the line as he seeks his first title defense, whereas Benn is chasing his first major belt. On Thursday, the duo faced off in person ahead of their Zuffa Boxing-promoted event, and tensions were a little high.
Fearing a repeat of their July scuffle, UFC CEO Dana White
was quick to intervene before any hands were thrown and admitted that “you guys are freaking me out” when the two were still posturing.
Garcia had some strong words for Benn as well. “Your dad’s lying to you,” Garcia told Benn. “Black eyes in sparring? F—king s—tty. F—k you. I’m beating that ass.” Fortunately, English boxer didn’t take the bait, and nobody will get fined by the Nevada State Athletic Commission (NSAC) for extra curricular fighting (at least at this press conference).
Check out the intense staredown below:
“King Ryan” captured his WBC crown earlier this year by beating up Mario Barrios en route to a one-sided decision victory. The win was a return to form after a poor showing and subsequent defeat at the hands of Rolly Romero. Meanwhile, Benn enters the fight riding a pair of high-profile wins over Regis Prograis and Chris Eubank Jr.
Who walks away with a fancy custom belt?
