Eddie Hearn has raised concerns about Conor Benn’s readiness for his welterweight clash with Ryan Garcia, casting doubt on the latter’s power and resilience.
The highly anticipated bout between Garcia and Benn is set for September 12 at Las Vegas’ T-Mobile Arena, serving as a co-promotion between Oscar De La Hoya’s Golden Boy and Dana White’s Zuffa Boxing.
While Garcia secured the WBC title by outpointing Mario Barrios in February—a comeback after a surprising points loss to Rolando Romero in May—he is now widely regarded as a top-tier welterweight contender.
In contrast, Benn’s career has been marked by victories against fighters nearing retirement, such as Chris Eubank Jr and Regis Prograis, raising questions about his ability to perform at the elite level.
Additionally, Benn has competed at 147lbs or above since his 2022 second-round stoppage of Chris van Heerden—a weight class that Hearn believes will challenge him significantly.
During an interview with K.O. Artist Sports, Hearn emphasized his skepticism:
“This fight is exciting for boxing, but I have reservations about Benn fighting at 147lbs. He previously competed at 160lbs, facing Eubank, and looked inexperienced at 150lbs against Prograis.
“Training intensely doesn’t compensate for the lack of power and technique at this weight. I don’t foresee Benn having the physicality or chin to handle Garcia.”
“Garcia, however, is a world-class technician with immense punching power. This could be a close fight, but Benn’s resolve and confidence might lead to a dramatic outcome.”
It’s worth noting that this rivalry carries added tension, as Benn departed Matchroom for Zuffa Boxing earlier this year, a move that may influence both fighters’ approaches.
Also Read
- Triple H Confirms Nick Aldis’s In-Ring Return at WWE SummerSlam A former world champion is officially returning to the ring after three years, confirmed WWE Chief Content Officer Triple H. Nick Aldis, who enjoyed a successful run as an in-ring competitor before joining WWE, held several titles, including the TNA World Championship. However, the 39-year-old stepped away from the squared circle since joining the Stamford-based company, becoming the General Manager of SmackDown. Aldis last competed in October 2023, losing a five-way match for the ACW Bluegrass Con Title. Following a physical altercation with Gunther backstage at Night of Champions in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Aldis was sent home and placed on administrative leave last month. Nick Aldis vs. Gunther Official for WWE SummerSlam After their most recent encounter on SmackDown, Gunther and Nick Aldis will settle their differences in the ring at SummerSlam, officially confirming Aldis’ in-ring return after three years of absence. Following their return, Gunther and Nick Aldis crossed paths once again on SmackDown. After the SmackDown General Manager refused to add The Ring General to the Undisputed WWE Championship match at SummerSlam, the Austrian star attacked him and choked him out. Last month, the SmackDown General Manager and Gunther had a physical altercation backstage after Night of Champions in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. As a result, WWE sent both home, with Aldis being placed on administrative leave. Triple H Officially Announces Gunther Vs. Nick Aldis For WWE SummerSlam Following their return, Gunther and Nick Aldis crossed paths once again on SmackDown. After the SmackDown General Manager refused to add The Ring General to the Undisputed WWE Championship match at SummerSlam, the Austrian star attacked him and choked him out. Last night at Saturday Night’s Main Event, Aldis returned during the tag team match between CM Punk & Cody Rhodes and Sami Zayn and Gunther, striking The Ring General with the Undisputed WWE Title belt, costing him a chance to be added to the SummerSlam match. During tonight’s SummerSlam Kickoff show, Gunther confronted Triple H over Aldis’ actions, demanding that the WWE Chief Content Officer take action against the SmackDown General Manager. Triple H defended Aldis, telling The Ring General that he had pushed the former TNA World Champion too far. Aldis then came to the stage and confirmed The Game’s comments. Gunther suddenly attacked Aldis before attempting to leave. However, the SmackDown GM came back to his feet and went after his rival, forcing security to intervene and separate the two men. Triple H then announced that the two stars will settle their differences in the ring at SummerSlam, officially confirming Aldis’ in-ring return after three years of absence.
- Detroit Red Wings Face Crucial Offseason Priority in Locking Up Simon Edvinsson
- Global Superstars Light Up World Cup Final Halftime Show
- Usyk Names Crawford the Clear Choice in Hypothetical Mayweather vs. Crawford Matchup
