Garcia stops Benn in 2 rounds, retains WBC welterweight belt

By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña

Ryan Garcia is still the king of the World Boxing Council welterweight division.

On Sept. 13, 2026, the flamboyant Garcia once again walked the talk, scoring an impressive technical knockout victory over Conor Benn to successfully defend his WBC welterweight crown at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Garcia not only showed up to get that bag.

He dominated, outclassed, and outmaneuvered Benn to notch his second consecutive one-sided win since dethroning Mario Barrios on Feb. 22, 2026.

Unlike his explosive start against Barrios, Garcia had a more mature approach against Benn, who is widely known for his devastating counterpunching and elite footwork.

Garcia gauged his desired hitting distance early in the first round, threw some lead jabs, and saw several openings in Benn’s stagnant orthodox fighting stance.

Benn employed a one-dimensional strategy from the get-go, which was to put Garcia on the back foot for the majority of the first round.

However, immense pressure comes with huge risks, as Garcia hit Benn with several left hooks every time he closed the distance and ducked under to get closer.

Benn had some moments in the first round after pinning Garcia twice against the ropes, but he didn’t take full advantage as the reigning champion wisely pivoted away from danger with a slick turn to his right.

All hell broke loose in the second round as both fighters immediately traded blows in the first 30 seconds, with Benn firing first with several jabs to the body and Garcia countering with a straight right.

The fans in attendance then rose to their feet at the 2:15 mark after Garcia scored a devastating knockdown with a flush right hook.

After Benn continued to press forward, Garcia set up his right hook with a left straight check punch, leaving Benn’s left guard wide open for the perfect opportunity.

Benn was able to get back up, but the referee waved off the fight with only 1:25 remaining in the second round after Garcia relentlessly pummeled Benn against the ropes.

With the win, Garcia improved his professional record to 26 wins, 21 knockouts, and two losses, while Benn slid to 25 wins, 14 knockouts, and two losses.

“Praise our Lord savior Jesus Christ,” Garcia said after the win.

“I’m just happy. I’m so blessed. I want to thank Conor for a great build-up and a great match. I respect him. I am just so blessed to fight on this day.”