Ryan Garcia has been branded a coward by a potential rival in a shock statement.
‘King Ry’ achieved his career-long dream of becoming a world champion back in February when he outpointed Mario Barrios to capture the WBC world welterweight title at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
The 27-year-old from California sent Barrios to the canvas in the opening few seconds of their showdown and would go on to dominate his countryman for the duration of the bout in what was a career-best performance.
As speculation grows about what might be next for Garcia, the American star has been slammed by Britain’s Conor Benn who has been outlined as a future opponent for the WBC welterweight champion.
In an interview with Fight Hub TV, Benn branded Garcia a coward and welcomed the fight later this year.
“It’s a little bit cowardly because now he’s being very vocal. Obviously off the back of the Regis fight. Where was you before?
“He’s a little bit of a coward but ultimately I’ve been calling for that fight for a while. So, thank God that whatever he saw in the Regis fight has now made him want to start talking about the fight, Cool, let’s do it!”
Benn made his much-anticipated return to the ring earlier this month when he defeated two-time world super lightweight champion Regis Prograis by unanimous decision at the conclusion of their 10-round bout at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London.
‘The Destroyer’ remains the mandatory challenger to the WBC world welterweight title and is expected to be given an opportunity to face Garcia for the belt before the end of 2026.
