Ryan Garcia targets Conor Benn after awards show confrontation

Ryan Garcia says he will fight Conor Benn and settle a dispute that turned physical at an awards show two years ago. The American welterweight claims Benn grabbed him in front of his wife.

“He's from across the pond - his name is Conor Benn. He's been talking a lot, he's talking crazy. He actually confronted me at an awards show two years ago. My wife was there and he pressed me, grabbed me, so it's a little personal. We'll be ready to go. I'm going to put a whooping on this man.”

— Ryan Garcia, via BBC Sport

What Ryan Garcia said

Garcia confirmed his interest in the Benn matchup when speaking to BBC Sport. The two fighters have exchanged words on social media for months, but Garcia says the tension dates back to a face-to-face incident. Both men campaign around welterweight and have talked up the fight as a natural fit. Benn has been vocal about wanting high-profile opponents since returning to the ring.

What it moves

Garcia framed the fight as personal rather than business. His claim that Benn pressed him at an event adds a grudge angle to what would be a significant crossover bout. Benn has yet to respond publicly to Garcia's latest call-out. A deal would likely require agreement on weight and sanctioning terms.

Source: bbc.com. Full Ryan Garcia fight history and recent news at boxingnews.com.