Ryan Garcia and Conor Benn appear to be moving towards a showdown, but Eddie Hearn believes the fight’s biggest audience may be on the other side of the Atlantic.
Garcia remains one of boxing’s biggest social media stars and one of the sport’s most recognizable names in the United States. Benn has since built up a strong following in Britain. Hearn suggested the difference could affect how the fight is received internationally.
“I think it’s a good fight. I don’t think it’s a big fight in America. I think it’s a big fight in the UK. Obviously, Ryan is a big star in America. Conor isn’t. Ryan is a bigger star in the UK than Conor is in America, and Conor is a big star in the UK,” Hearn told the media.
Hearn also questioned expectations for the event’s commercial performance, despite the attention generated by Ryan’s name and Benn’s profile in Britain.
“Yeah, I don’t think it’s a fight that’s going to get big numbers, but I like the fight.”
The Matchroom chairman then turned to the boxing side of the match, arguing that 147 pounds favors Ryan and suggesting that Benn is more comfortable carrying extra weight.
“I don’t think Conor should be fighting at 147. I like him at 160 or up to that weight class,” Hearn said.
Hearn’s comments highlight a problem that has followed the booking of the fight since it first surfaced. Garcia is a recognizable name in the United States, but Benn’s profile is largely concentrated in Britain.
While Benn is one of the UK’s best-known active fighters, much of that recognition comes from his family name and household following. Hearn suggested the difference could limit the fight’s appeal outside the UK market and prevent it from becoming the big transatlantic event that some expect.
An official announcement for Garcia-Benn has yet to be made, although speculation surrounding the fight has intensified in recent weeks.
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Last updated on 2026/06/01 at 20:00
