Veteran trainer Robert Garcia expects Ryan Garcia to stop Conor Benn by knockout when they fight for the WBC welterweight title on 12 September. Garcia insists Benn’s return to the 147-pound limit leaves him exposed to superior hand speed.
The physical transition back to welterweight marks a critical factor in the upcoming WBC title fight scheduled for 12 September. Benn has competed at heavier weights in recent outings, meaning the drop down to the 147-pound limit demands a rigorous weight cut. In Garcia’s view, that drastic reduction in weight will drain Benn’s stamina and punch resistance against one of boxing’s quickest punchers. Speaking on the matchup, Garcia stated: “I think Ryan catches him and hurts him and knocks him out,” before elaborating further on the division switch: “Conor Benn’s a warrior, but he hasn’t made 147 in a long time. I think that’s going to hurt him. That’s going to really hurt him to get to 147. Ryan hits hard and is unbelievably fast.”
Garcia also looks past the September bout toward other high-profile contests at welterweight.
Should Ryan Garcia emerge victorious, a rematch against Devin Haney remains a major target. Garcia believes the outcome of their first fight provides a lasting psychological edge that Haney would struggle to overcome. Commenting on a second bout between the rivals, Garcia said: “Everybody wants to see that. Ryan already beat him once. Ryan already has the confidence, the blueprint, and Devin also has that against him. This guy got me good, dropped me a few times psychologically. I pick Ryan.”
However, Haney must first defend his WBO welterweight crown against challenger Keyshawn Davis. While acknowledging Davis’ skill, Garcia believes Haney’s frame, jab, and division experience will prove decisive on fight night. Offering his analysis on that contest, Garcia remarked: “He’s just too talented, smart, great jab, big guy. When it comes to the day of the fight, he gets big. That might be a disadvantage for Keyshawn.”
