Ryan Garcia defends WBC welterweight title vs Connor Benn Sept. 12

Ryan Garcia will defend his WBC welterweight title against Connor Benn on Sept. 12 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, according to ESPN.

Garcia, who claimed the 147-pound belt earlier this year, faces Benn in what marks his first defense of the strap. The fight lands on one of boxing's premium dates at a venue that has hosted multiple championship cards this year.

Garcia-Benn matchup set for Vegas showdown

Benn has campaigned at welterweight since moving up from junior welterweight in 2022. The Englishman has been angling for a world title shot after rebuilding momentum following doping controversies that derailed a scheduled bout with Chris Eubank Jr.

Garcia claimed the WBC belt with a decision win over a previously unbeaten champion. The Southern California native now steps into his first title defense against a fighter known for aggressive pressure and heavy hands.

The Sept. 12 card will air on pay-per-view. Undercard bouts are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.

Reported via:

• ESPN Boxing — Garcia to defend WBC title against Benn Sept. 12