Garcia and Benn negotiate welterweight title for Sept 12

A potential welterweight title fight between WBC champion Ryan Garcia and mandatory challenger Conor Benn is reportedly being negotiated for a targeted date of September 12 in Las Vegas, though a formal agreement has not been finalized. The matchup would represent a significant commercial event and a pivotal test for both fighters' careers.

Garcia, who won the WBC title in February, publicly stated the September date during a television appearance. However, his comments in recent days have characterized Benn as a "potential" opponent, indicating discussions are ongoing. Benn's trainer, Tony Sims, confirmed negotiations are proceeding but said the date and venue are not yet set. He acknowledged Benn would likely enter the fight as an underdog but expressed confidence in his fighter's chances given a full training camp.

Benn earned his mandatory challenger status with a victory over Regis Prograis in April. That fight, contested at a 150-pound catchweight, was part of Benn's return to the welterweight division following two bouts at middleweight against Chris Eubank Jr. While Benn won a clear decision over Prograis, some observers noted the former champion appeared past his prime...