Benn Confirms Final 147 Fight Before Garcia Clash

Conor Benn will never make welterweight again after this weekend.

The British contender, who faces Ryan Garcia for a 147-pound title Saturday in Las Vegas, told reporters this week that the cut to welterweight has been punishing enough to force a permanent move up in weight. "This camp feels like I got dragged down to hell, had a fight with Satan, and come back to life," Benn said, per Bad Left Hook. "That's how I feel."

Benn started his pro career at welterweight but has fought primarily at junior middleweight in recent years. He plans to campaign at 160 pounds once the Garcia fight is behind him, citing strength and sustainability at the higher limit. "I feel extremely strong at 160 and I feel like that's the home for Conor Benn when this fight is said and done," he said.

Asked about Garcia's unpredictable behaviour in the lead-up, Benn dismissed any concerns. "He can come however he wants, it makes no difference to me on my approach," he said. Benn also waved off questions about testing protocols, saying the subject had not crossed his mind.

The fight takes place Sept. 13 at a venue to be confirmed in Las Vegas, with Benn chasing his first world title at the weight where he turned pro.