WBC welterweight world champion Ryan Garcia is preparing to defend his title against Conor Benn. Garcia expressed confidence in his training camp while dismissing criticisms from rivals Terence Crawford and trainer Brian McIntyre ahead of the bout.
Garcia reported a smooth training period as he prepares for the upcoming welterweight contest. He questioned Benn’s commitment to the 147 lb limit, suggesting his opponent is creating early excuses regarding weight management.
Addressing Benn’s public statements about his future at welterweight, Garcia said: “One million percent. He already set it up. You already heard him say ‘this is my last fight at 147’. Who wants to become a champion and then leave the division? Bro was making excuses. He’s not going to become a champion but who would do that? It makes no sense unless you’re setting up an excuses.”
Garcia also targeted critics and rival figures who have picked against him ahead of the title defense, insisting external opinions will have no bearing inside the ring.
On McIntyre and Crawford, Garcia remarked: “[Brian McIntyre], hateful dude. He don’t know nothing about me and then he just wants to say I’m trash, don’t wake up a sleeping giant. Like, my guy, one, I’m not afraid of giants…Crawford is the one that’s coming up and always slight hating on me little by little.”
He suggested that established figures should step away from active commentary. Addressing retired boxers directly, Garcia added: “If they want to come back, they can. But in the meantime you’re retired, you should be in Turks and Caicos and chilling on a yacht, enjoying your family…you had your turn, you had your run. There should be no more talking, bro.”
Garcia believes a victory will solidify his position at the highest level of the sport.
The title defense against Benn provides Garcia with a major platform to establish his standing in the division. He remains focused on expanding his influence across boxing following the event.
He concluded: “At the end of the day they’re trying to all come together, trying to tear me down because they know I’m here and I’m about to take over. I could potentially be the face of boxing after this fight.”
