Garcia’s Absence from Face-Off
Ryan Garcia did not attend a scheduled face-off with Conor Benn on Tuesday, ahead of their WBC welterweight title bout in Las Vegas. Garcia stated he had no apologies for his absence, finding it humorous to see Benn square off against his father, Nigel. Garcia is preparing for his first defense of the WBC welterweight title against Benn at the T-Mobile Arena.
The pair were expected to meet at the Mandalay Bay Hotel for a media event, but Garcia did not appear. Benn subsequently suggested that his opponent had “bottled it.” Garcia clarified his decision during a press conference on Wednesday, explaining that he did not want to be there.
Garcia noted that there would be other opportunities for face-offs, including at the press conference on Thursday, the weigh-ins on Friday, and finally in the ring. He mentioned having a routine and that a Tuesday face-off was not something he typically did, despite having experienced fight weeks in Las Vegas previously.
Benn expressed that Garcia’s non-appearance was disrespectful to the public, who he believes deserve to see the fighters engage in such events. He emphasized that providing the best for the fans is part of their role.
Benn’s Weight Cut Challenges
Conor Benn is entering this fight as an underdog. He previously moved up to middleweight to face Chris Eubank Jr., losing their first encounter in April 2025 before securing a victory in a rematch later that November. Most recently, Benn defeated Regis Prograis at a 150lbs catchweight in April.
Should Benn successfully make weight at Friday’s weigh-in, it will mark his first time fighting at the welterweight limit in over four years. His last fight under 147lbs was against Chris van Heerden in April 2022. Benn addressed those who doubted his ability to achieve the weight, stating he had undergone 15 weeks of dieting.
Benn described his preparations for the weight cut as feeling like he had been “dragged through the pits of hell and had a fight with satan.” He affirmed that he had achieved the weight and indicated that this would be his final fight at 147lbs, with aspirations to move up to 160 or 168lbs afterwards.
Garcia, however, stated that he does not want to hear any excuses from Benn regarding his weight cut after the fight. He referenced Benn’s previous weight cuts, including to 150lbs for the fight against Regis Prograis, and noted that Benn has an additional three pounds to lose for this bout. Garcia also highlighted the absence of a rehydration clause.
Fight Analysis and Predictions
The upcoming bout between Ryan Garcia and Conor Benn on Saturday, September 12, is anticipated to be a significant event in 2026. Garcia will be defending his recently acquired WBC welterweight title. Both fighters have aspects of their careers that generate discussion.
Ryan Garcia (25-2, 20 KO) secured the WBC welterweight title in February by defeating Mario Barrios. This marked his first professional world title. While he showed sharpness in that fight, dropping Barrios in the opening round, his career has also included a loss to Rolly Romero in May 2025. He also had a majority decision win against Devin Haney, which was later overturned due to a failed drug test and a failure to make weight.
Conor Benn (25-1, 14 KO) has had a career progression that saw him become a formidable puncher around 2019, following initial struggles. After a 17-month absence, he returned in 2023. Since then, he has had five fights, including going the distance with Rodolfo Orozco and Peter Dobson. His recent fight against Regis Prograis also went the full 10 rounds. Benn has not secured a stoppage victory since his TKO-2 win over Chris van Heerden in April 2022, and has not fought at 147 lbs since that time.
Analysts note that Garcia’s recent performance against Barrios showed improvements, such as an increased right-hand threat and better footwork. However, recurring issues like poor head movement and low hands, which were evident in past fights, were still present. Benn’s strengths are considered to be his durability and motor, traits that can be affected by dehydration, which is a concern given his difficult weight cut.
One prediction suggests that Garcia’s speed and boxing ability could be an advantage, especially if Benn is aggressive. However, questions remain about Garcia’s mental consistency during fights and Benn’s physical condition following his weight cut. Another perspective leans towards Garcia due to his talent, speed, and boxing skills, provided he maintains focus. The fight is scheduled to be broadcast live on Paramount+.
Source: skysports.com