British boxer Conor Benn's path to a world championship has been dramatically clarified after he was officially installed as the WBC's No. 1 contender in the welterweight division.
WBC Announcement Sets Up Title Shot
The World Boxing Council made the significant announcement on Monday 2 December 2024 during its annual convention in Bangkok, Thailand. This pivotal ranking effectively positions the 29-year-old Briton for a mandatory shot at the green and gold WBC welterweight title, currently held by American fighter Mario Barrios.
WBC President Mauricio Sulaiman expressed his admiration for Benn and his team during the convention. "We appreciate Matchroom, please express to Conor and to Nigel our unbelievable gratitude for the way they have portrayed their dream of the green and gold," Sulaiman stated, referencing Benn's promoters and his father, former champion Nigel Benn.
Potential Opponents: Barrios or Garcia?
The championship landscape now presents two compelling possibilities for Benn's next bout. The reigning champion, Mario Barrios (30), retained his belt in July with a contentious draw against the legendary 46-year-old Manny Pacquiao. However, Barrios is rumoured to be preparing for a title defence against the flamboyant Ryan Garcia (27) in February 2025.
This scenario means Benn could ultimately face the winner of that potential Barrios-Garcia clash, or even step in as a challenger directly. Ryan Garcia has already publicly addressed a fight with Benn, telling Covers.com last week that he would be willing to travel to the UK for the match-up. "He seems like a fun match-up," Garcia said, while also taking aim at Benn's promoter, Eddie Hearn.
Benn's Redemption and Welterweight Return
Sulaiman specifically highlighted Benn's recent victory over domestic rival Chris Eubank Jr in November 2024 as a key factor in the decision. That win, which came via a points decision, avenged Benn's sole professional defeat—a loss to Eubank Jr earlier in April. Notably, both of those high-profile contests took place at middleweight, well above Benn's natural welterweight limit.
Benn has consistently stated his intention to return to the 147-pound welterweight division, where he has long targeted elite American fighters like Barrios and Garcia. His new status as the WBC's top contender makes that dream an imminent reality, setting the stage for a major world title fight in 2025 that will captivate British boxing fans.
