LAS VEGAS — Conor Benn will return to the welterweight limit of 147 pounds for the first time in several years this weekend when he challenges Ryan Garcia for a world welterweight title in Las Vegas, a childhood dream opportunity that Benn admits will also be his final appearance at the weight.
Benn struck a focused tone when asked about Garcia’s approach and mindset heading into the bout. “He’s going to be himself. He can come however he wants, it makes no difference to me on my approach,” Benn said. He added that outside noise has not factored into his preparation: “It’s not even crossed my mind at all. I know we’re both diligently tested and that’s what’s important. But I honestly don’t even think about him, not even a thought in my head how he turns up, what his mental state is, whether he’s tested or not. It makes no difference, I’m still going to do what I got to do, prepare as hard as I prepare, and focus on getting the victory.”
The physical toll of returning to 147 has dominated his camp. Benn said the cut has been punishing and pointed to 160 pounds as his natural home going forward. “Because the weight cut is that hard…I feel extremely strong at 160 and I feel like that’s the home for Conor Benn when this fight is said and done. 147 — this camp feels like I got dragged down to hell, had a fight with Satan, and come back to life. That’s how I feel,” he said.
Benn noted he started his career at 147 and called the chance to fight for a world welterweight title a blessing. The Las Vegas meeting with Garcia offers him a shot to become a world champion before he moves up permanently, closing his welterweight chapter with the biggest fight of his career to date.