Ryan Garcia Demands His Next Fight

WBC Welterweight Champion Ryan Garcia wants to stay active following his first world title win in February against Mario Barrios. 

Garcia has consistently been linked with an August 2026 return—though a significant promotional hurdle has emerged in his quest for a clash with Conor Benn. Garcia remains the cornerstone of Oscar De La Hoya’s Golden Boy Promotions, while Conor Benn recently signed a landmark five-fight deal with Dana White’s Zuffa Boxing. That has complicated negotiations, but Benn wants Garcia.

“Garcia, I want my belt. I want my belt. Keep my belt warm. September, let’s go. Great fight, tough, durable, experience. We had to weather some storms but we’re good. Thank God. First fight back at 150 pounds in three years. Now I’m ready to move down to 147 pounds and get Ryan Garcia,” Benn stated

Garcia’s Frustration

While Garcia is pushing for August, reports suggest that a massive rematch with Devin Haney is being targeted by De La Hoya. Their first meeting in 2024 remains a “No Contest” following Garcia’s positive Ostarine test. Talks for a unification bout with Teofimo Lopez (originally rumored for July 25) have reportedly collapsed, leaving Ryan frustrated.