Conor Benn will challenge Ryan Garcia for the WBC welterweight championship on 12 September at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, UFC chief executive Dana White confirmed this evening.
The highly anticipated bout represents the British contender’s maiden opportunity to capture a world title.
Golden Boy Promotions announced the contest in partnership with The Ring and Zuffa Boxing following extensive negotiations between the parties.
American audiences can watch the action live on Paramount+, whilst international viewers will access the broadcast through DAZN.
Conor Benn is one of the biggest names in British boxing | REUTERS
The September clash marks Garcia’s inaugural defence of the 147-pound strap he secured earlier this year.
Benn arrives in Las Vegas carrying a record of 25 victories against a single defeat, having rebuilt his reputation following that sole professional setback.
The Essex fighter suffered his first loss when Chris Eubank Jr secured a points victory at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, continuing the storied rivalry between their famous fathers.
Benn exacted revenge in November’s rematch, flooring Eubank twice en route to a unanimous decision triumph.
The 28-year-old subsequently dropped back towards welterweight, defeating former world champion Regis Prograis in April on the undercard of Tyson Fury’s return bout.
Ryan Garcia will fight Conor Benn on 12 September while his win over Devin Haney was overturned
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That victory marked his second outing under the Zuffa Boxing banner following his multi-fight agreement with the promotion.
Benn has made no secret of his ambitions, declaring his intentions in characteristically forthright fashion.
“I have just one goal and that is get the world title,” Benn previously told Sky Sports.
The Ilford-born fighter spoke of his intensified dedication despite achieving financial security.
“Ultimately, I’m in a position now where I’m really comfortable in life, but the work has become more relentless. The work has become more purposeful. There’s more intent behind the work, and it’s hard to say that considering I’ve always worked hard.”
His father Nigel, a British boxing legend, held the WBC super-middleweight crown during his illustrious career.
“He won that world title so for me it’s my goal to win that world title,” Benn said.
Conor Benn beat Chris Eubank Jr last year after losing their first fight | PA
Garcia enters the contest having navigated a turbulent period in his career.
The Californian was stopped by Gervonta Davis in 2023, then saw his victory over Devin Haney overturned to a no-contest following a failed drugs test.
A subsequent upset defeat to WBA champion Rolando Romero compounded his difficulties.
The 27-year-old restored his standing in February, dropping and outpointing Mario Barrios to claim the WBC welterweight belt.
Ryan Garcia secured the first world championship of his professional career earlier this year
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The stylistic contrast promises fireworks, with Benn’s relentless forward pressure set against Garcia’s renowned hand speed and devastating left hook.
Benn rarely retreats, whilst Garcia possesses the timing and power to punish aggressive opponents who venture into range.
