Gareth Davies Questions Conor Benn’s Current Form Ahead of Garcia Showdown

Gareth A. Davies maintains that Ryan Garcia would likely halt Conor Benn in a September 12th bout, citing Benn’s recent outings and his challenging return to the welterweight division after competing at higher weights.

Garcia recently announced on Jimmy Fallon his intention to face Benn later this year in Las Vegas for the WBC welterweight title. The matchup would rank among the most lucrative fights in boxing outside the heavyweight division, yet Davies questioned whether Benn still possesses the explosive power that defined his career between 2019 and 2022.

“Conor Benn hasn’t fought at 147 pounds in four years,” said Davies on talkSport Boxing. “His last bout was a 150‑pound catchweight against Regis Prograis. He hasn’t hit 147 for four years.”

“Regis Prograis is a slippery, slick southpaw at the tail end of his career, currently heading down. Even though Benn won handily, he didn’t look full of vim and vigor. The strength is there, but he didn’t display the wrecking ball he showcased against Chris Eubank Jr. in their second fight.”

Davies acknowledges Benn’s continued aggression and pressure, but questions whether the ferocious contender who racked up knockouts before his 2022 suspension saga remains intact.

“When was the last time you saw that?” Davies asked. “He had two trips to 154, and he didn’t look remarkable. He moved up to 160, won one, lost one. The win was a very calculated performance.”

“Now he’s dropped back to 150, which is significant. And he’s 29 now. We’ve thought of him as a 24‑year‑old, haven’t we? He’s 29.”

Davies believes the weight issue could become a crucial factor against Garcia, who is one of the most powerful punchers in the welterweight division with a dangerous left hook.

“If he’s truly struggled at the weight, he’ll struggle against Garcia, who delivers both powerful left and right hooks, notably his left hook,” Davies said.

“It’s a dangerous fight for him. I think it’ll go to the finish, but I’m concerned he’ll be knocked out by Ryan Garcia unless he knocks Garcia out himself.”

Olly Campbell has covered boxing since 2014, offering ringside reporting and technical analysis of major bouts. His work focuses on fighter tendencies, tactical adjustments, and the details that shape high‑level competition.

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