Garcia Responds to Benn's Challenge: Your Corner or the Referee Will Stop the Fight

Pulse Sports Team 14:57 - 13 April 2026

Ryan Garcia and Conor Benn have already ignited a war of words ahead of a potential title clash. Conor Benn has set his sights on Ryan Garcia and the WBC welterweight title, with Garcia, in turn, stating he's ready to accept the fight.

Benn (25-1, 14 KOs) secured a unanimous decision victory over Regis Prograis on Saturday after 10 rounds. His performance wasn't the most impressive, and after the bout, the 37-year-old Prograis, who appeared to be struggling with a leg injury during the fight, announced his retirement from boxing.

Now, the 29-year-old boxer has issued a direct challenge to Garcia. Benn delivered his taunt in a video posted on social media, which was a response to Garcia's comment on Saturday that he was "down" for the fight.

"Garcia, I want my belt. Keep it warm for me," Benn declared. "September, let's do this. Any day of the week, and twice on Sunday... Garcia, you're next, keep my belt warm."

During Benn's fight with Prograis, Garcia dubbed him "Conor Bumm" – a simple and direct verbal jab – and predicted he would force his opponent to quit if they ever faced each other.

"Mark my words, his corner or the referee will stop the fight in the sixth or seventh round," Garcia stated.

In fact, Benn hasn't made the welterweight limit of 147 lbs since his fight with Chris van Heerden in April 2022, which is a significant period of time.

Garcia (25-2, 20 KOs) dominated Mario Barrios to win the WBC title on February 21st. This marked the 27-year-old star's first world title.