Conor Benn Eyes Future Bouts Following Welterweight Stoppage Loss

Conor Benn is looking toward his next career move after a difficult second-round stoppage loss to WBC world champion Ryan Garcia in Las Vegas this past September. The defeat, which occurred during his return to the 147-pound welterweight division, has prompted the 30-year-old fighter to permanently move up in weight class. Benn acknowledged that the physical toll of making the welterweight limit was significant and contributed to his performance against Garcia.

Reflecting on the loss, Benn admitted that attempting to reach 147 pounds was a mistake. He stated that he currently walks around at approximately 185 to 186 pounds, making the weight cut an arduous process that compromised his ability to perform at his best. While he expressed disappointment in the outcome, he refrained from criticizing the referee's decision to stop the fight, noting that the official's primary responsibility is the safety of the athletes involved.

Looking ahead, Benn has identified the middleweight division as his permanent home. He dismissed the possibility of competing at light-middleweight, citing the severity of his recent weight-cutting struggles. As he prepares to transition, he is already evaluating high-profile opportunities for the upcoming year, including a potential showdown with boxing legend Manny Pacquiao.

Benn revealed that he was previously offered a bout against Pacquiao for December 2026. However, he declined the offer, explaining that the timing was too soon following his fight with Garcia and that he needed to prioritize time with his family. Despite this, Benn remains optimistic about the prospect, suggesting that negotiations could resume for a fight in the first quarter of 2027. He noted that he is consistently training and would be prepared to face the eight-division world champion if the opportunity arises early next year.

In addition to a potential clash with Pacquiao, Benn is being considered as a future opponent for American contender Shane Mosley Jr. Both fighters have recently competed under the Zuffa Boxing banner, which could facilitate a matchup. Mosley, who is the son of a boxing legend, recently expressed interest in a fight against the son of Nigel Benn, joking that he would like to prove who has the better legendary father.

Mosley, 35, identified Benn, along with IBF world champion Aaron McKenna and contender Callum Walsh, as potential targets for 2027. As Benn seeks to rebound from his recent setback, these potential middleweight encounters represent a chance to reestablish his standing in the sport. Benn remains focused on his recovery and his future, stating that he intends to return as a better version of himself.