Ryan Garcia vs. Conor Benn Set for WBC Welterweight Title Fight as Date, Location Announced

After winning the WBC welterweight title earlier this year, Ryan Garcia is set to defend his belt later this year.

UFC president and Zuffa Boxing co-founder Dana White announced on Wednesday that Garcia will put his title on the line against Conor Benn during Mexican Independence Weekend on Sept. 12 at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

Garcia claimed the WBC welterweight title by defeating Mario Barrios via unanimous decision in February. He scored a knockdown in the first round and showed off a more well-rounded attack rather than overly relying on his powerful left hand.

This will mark Benn's second appearance under the Zuffa Boxing banner after signing a multi-fight deal with the promotion in February. He defeated former two-time super-lightweight champion Regis Prograis by unanimous decision in April in the co-main event of the Tyson Fury vs. Arslanbek Makhmudov fight card on Netflix.

After his win over Prograis, Benn quickly turned his attention to Garcia, prompting a back-and-forth between the boxers on social media that has continued for months.

Last month, Golden Boy Promotions, which represents Garcia, sent a cease and desist letter to Zuffa Boxing and TKO Group alleging interference with its fighter.

"It has come to our attention that you are planning to announce a professional boxing match between Garcia and Conor Benn to be held on September 12, 2026, to be promoted by Zuffa, and to be broadcast on Paramount+," the letter stated. "That is a direct violation of Golden Boy's and DAZN's rights. Golden Boy has not approved of or agreed to the terms of any such bout."

It now appears that any issues have been ironed out, and Garcia and Benn will be able to settle their differences in the ring in September.