Ryan Garcia vs. Conor Benn Official For September 12

Golden Boy and Zuffa Boxing finalize one of the year’s biggest welterweight fights, with Garcia making the first defense of his WBC championship in Las Vegas

Ryan Garcia will defend his WBC welterweight title against Conor Benn on September 12 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas after Golden Boy and Zuffa Boxing finalized one of the biggest fights of the fall. The bout headlines Mexican Independence Day weekend and streams on Paramount+ in the United States and live on DAZN in the UK and Ireland.

Garcia returns after capturing the WBC 147-pound title with a victory over Mario Barrios earlier this year. The 27-year-old now faces one of the division’s most aggressive punchers in Benn, who has built his reputation on relentless pressure and power.

Benn (25-1, 14 KOs) has been calling for a fight since returning to the ring, and he now gets his first opportunity to compete for a world title. The son of former two-division world champion Nigel Benn has largely campaigned at welterweight, making the matchup a natural fit after Garcia moved up from junior welterweight.

The announcement also marks a significant business development. Golden Boy and Zuffa Boxing appeared to be at odds during negotiations, with Oscar De La Hoya publicly expressing frustration over the process. Despite those concerns, both sides reached an agreement to stage one of the year’s highest-profile welterweight fights.

From a stylistic standpoint, the matchup promises action.

Ryan Garcia vs Conor Benn is OFFICIAL!

Live from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on September 12th on Mexican Independence Day Weekend #GarciaBenn pic.twitter.com/YSnrSMnmVq

— danawhite (@danawhite) July 15, 2026

“Alright everybody, it is official. Ryan Garcia vs. Conor Benn is signed and taking place on September 12th at the T-Mobile Arena,” said Dana White. “These guys have been going back and forth on social media. This fight is going to be awesome. Live on Mexican Independence Day weekend on Paramount+  and on DAZN in the UK and Ireland.”

Benn has rarely taken a backward step during his career, preferring to press opponents from the opening bell and look for fight-ending shots. Ryan, meanwhile, owns one of boxing’s quickest left hooks and has repeatedly shown he can change a fight with a single punch.

The contrast in styles gives the contest immediate appeal. Benn’s pressure will test Garcia’s composure and defensive discipline, while Ryan’s speed and timing will challenge Benn every time he charges into range.

Ryan will be looking to prove he can handle a relentless pressure fighter, while Benn has the opportunity to show his aggressive style can succeed against one of boxing’s fastest punchers.