Trainer Tony Sims suggests Conor Benn would probably be perceived as the less favored competitor in a match against Ryan Garcia, but he remains convinced his boxer has a legitimate shot at overcoming the WBC welterweight champion should the fight be confirmed.
Coach Sims addressed the potential bout during a discussion, responding to information indicating that Garcia and Conor Benn are progressing towards a fight agreement later in the year. Benn earned his position as Garcia’s WBC mandatory challenger following his victory over Regis Prograis, however, uncertainties persist regarding Benn’s preparedness for such a high-tier contest, particularly after his somewhat uninspiring showing against the declining former titleholder in April.
Given Garcia’s physique, swiftness, and his recent victory over Devin Haney, many observers regard Benn as the distinct longshot heading into the potential encounter.
“Ryan Garcia is an exceptional boxer, and he holds a victory over Devin Haney, having faced several prominent opponents,” Sims mentioned to Sky Sports. “Clearly, Conor Benn will enter that particular contest as a considerable underdog.”
Sims’ observations were delivered during a discussion regarding Benn’s future prospects and the active negotiations for a bout with WBC welterweight champion Garcia.
“They are both undeniably prominent figures. Ryan holds considerable fame in America, while Conor Benn is a major name in the UK. They command immense recognition, and this is a contest everyone will undoubtedly wish to watch,” Sims commented.
Tony suggests that Benn’s showing against Regis Prograis occurred under challenging conditions, stemming from limited training duration and the need for a weight cut after consecutive matches with Chris Eubank Jr.
“We were given six weeks to manage the weight reduction,” Sims stated. “He hasn’t competed against a left-handed boxer since 2022. We genuinely didn’t have much time to ready ourselves for that encounter.”
“If this bout with Garcia is confirmed, there will be sufficient time to meet the weight requirement, ample time to organize sparring partners and refine strategies for the match. I firmly believe Conor has a strong opportunity to claim the title.”

Last Updated on 2026/05/27 at 12:55 AM