Ryan Garcia successfully defended his WBC welterweight title on Saturday evening in Las Vegas, dismantling challenger Conor Benn with a devastating second-round stoppage. The American boxer, competing in his first title defense, delivered a powerful right hook that sent Benn to the canvas. Though Benn managed to beat the referee’s count, he was unable to withstand Garcia’s relentless follow-up assault, leading to the fight’s conclusion.
For Benn, the loss marked his first career stoppage defeat and a disappointing end to his maiden world title opportunity. The British boxer had entered the contest with notable momentum but found himself unable to match Garcia’s striking power. The result represents only Benn’s second professional loss overall, following his points defeat to Chris Eubank Jr. in April of the previous year.
Garcia’s performance came amid considerable controversy surrounding both fighters’ histories with anti-doping cases. The British boxer had faced suspension following failed drug tests in 2022 before being cleared to return in 2024, while Garcia served a one-year ban after testing positive in 2024. Both men maintained their innocence throughout their respective disputes.
Looking ahead, Garcia expressed interest in facing other prominent welterweight champions, while Benn may pivot his focus toward pursuing a middleweight rematch with Eubank Jr., against whom he has recently traded victories at the higher weight class.
Originally reported by Sports.yahoo →
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