Ryan Garcia Stops Conor Benn in Two Rounds to Retain Title

Ryan Garcia retained his WBC welterweight world championship on Saturday night after defeating British challenger Conor Benn via a second-round technical knockout at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. The 28-year-old American stopped Benn 85 seconds into the second round following a heavy knockdown and a subsequent barrage along the ropes. The victory marked Garcia’s first successful defense of the title he won earlier this year.

Second-Round Stoppage

Benn, an Essex native making his debut under the Zuffa Boxing banner, attempted to press forward in the opening round. However, Garcia repeatedly countered with left hooks to control the distance. Early in the second round, Garcia landed a clean right hand that sent Benn to the canvas in the opening 20 seconds.

Although Benn beat the referee’s count, he remained unsteady. Garcia immediately swarmed him against the ropes, landing unanswered blows until referee Thomas Taylor stepped in to stop the contest at the 1:25 mark. The result marked the first stoppage loss of Benn’s professional career.

Future Unification Targets

Following the bout, Garcia immediately called for unification matches across the welterweight division. He directed comments at WBA champion Teofimo Lopez, who was watching from ringside, and also issued a challenge to WBO champion Devin Haney.

Addressing his performance, Garcia noted that improved physical health had helped increase his power. “I’ve always had a right hand. I’ve just always had injuries,” Garcia said post-fight, noting he felt unhindered in his past two bouts. He also offered respect to Benn for the buildup and match.

Promotional Context and Revenue

The event was funded and organized by Turki Alalshikh, chairman of Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority, alongside Dana White’s Zuffa Boxing. White stated that the sellout crowd brought in an estimated live gate of $8 million.

The fight was Benn’s first event with Zuffa Boxing. Garcia remains under contract with Oscar De La Hoya’s Golden Boy Promotions, with White noting that Garcia has one fight remaining on his current promotional deal. De La Hoya did not attend the fight in Las Vegas.

Background

Garcia originally captured the WBC welterweight title in February 2026 by defeating Mario Barrios. His victory over Benn extends his undefeated professional record to 26 wins. Benn’s record dropped to 25 wins and two losses, with his previous career defeat coming by decision against Chris Eubank Jr. in 2025.