Conor Benn has made it clear that securing a WBC welterweight title showdown with Ryan Garcia sits at the top of his agenda, yet he also hinted that a host of other high‑profile opponents are already lining up, eager to test themselves against the British contender. Benn recently inked a multi‑year, multi‑fight contract with Zuffa Boxing, a deal that followed his impressive debut for the promotion when he out‑pointed Regis Prograis on the undercard of Tyson Fury’s bout at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium last Saturday. As the mandatory challenger for Garcia’s WBC belt, Benn believes his position in the division now opens the door to a range of elite match‑ups. Speaking to Sky Sports, he said, “Obviously the Garcia fight is the priority, but I’m not short of options.” He added that several top‑tier fighters have begun to call him out, signalling a growing appetite for a clash with the 29‑year‑old.
"There are a lot of fighters calling me out, big names calling me out," Benn explained. "God willing we get the Garcia fight done for the title. I’m in the No. 1 spot for that belt and I’ve worked extremely hard to earn that position.
If Ryan doesn’t want it, there are plenty of fish out there." The British star’s recent performances have only amplified interest. After avenging his sole professional loss with a rematch victory over Chris Eubank Jr at middleweight last November, Benn has been amused by the sudden surge of challenges following his points win over two‑time world champion Prograis.
He noted, "Do you know what’s funny? After the weekend, all the fighters are calling me out, begging for a fight. It just shows their character because nobody was calling me after the second Eubank fight – everyone went silent." Benn highlighted the unique circumstances of his Prograis bout: it was his first fight back at the 150‑pound limit in four years, and he accepted the challenge on just six weeks’ notice. "Not many people can say they fought a two‑time former world champion as a run‑out, won almost every round, and dropped it down to 149 lbs," he said.
"It’s a matter of discipline, staying in the gym and being ready to step in on short notice. If Ryan wants it, he can have it tomorrow." Dana White, the head of Zuffa Boxing, has expressed enthusiasm for a potential Benn‑Garcia clash, describing it as a "fun" fight that could capture worldwide attention. In an interview with Sky Sports, White said, "All the guys that have signed with us – we ask what you’ve dreamed about, what you want to do, what your career plans are.
We like to hear all that. Obviously I’m about making the biggest fights you can possibly make. All these kids that are fighting with us see it the same way." Zuffa Boxing is also expanding its roster, having recently signed former WBO cruiserweight champion Chris Billam‑Smith. White indicated that more British talent will be added in the coming weeks, emphasizing a commitment to both established stars and rising prospects.
"I just did a big deal with Sky and we are going to bring you big fights to the UK," he said. "So yes, I am looking for lots of UK talent – not just the big names you all know, but also young up‑and‑coming guys who have the potential to become world champions." The buzz surrounding Benn’s next move reflects a broader trend in the welterweight division, where fighters are eager to capitalize on the marketability of high‑profile match‑ups.
While Garcia remains the most coveted opponent due to the title at stake, the willingness of other contenders to step into the ring suggests that Benn could have multiple pathways to maintain his momentum, whether that involves a title bout, a super‑fight against a fellow British star, or a clash with a rising American prospect. In summary, Conor Benn’s primary goal remains securing the coveted bout with Ryan Garcia, but the flood of interest from other elite fighters indicates that his options are far from limited. With a new long‑term contract, a growing fan base, and the backing of Zuffa Boxing’s ambitious leadership, Benn appears poised to navigate whichever route leads to the biggest stage and the biggest payday in the sport.