Conor Benn took to social media today, letting his followers know that he wants WBC Light Heavyweight Champion Mario Barrios in his next fight to win his belt in 2025.
It’s a wise move for Benn to fight Barrios (29-2-1, 18 KOs) instead of moving up two weight classes to face Chris Eubank Jr. in the middle category.
The bigger picture
The Eubank Jr fight will always be in Conor’s future if he wants it, but he can achieve a lot more by winning the WBC light heavyweight belt against Barrios, who has been seen as the weakest link among the champions at that weight class.
Many see Eubank Jr. (35) as an aging, unsuccessful domestic player. It is not highly regarded in the UK or internationally.
If Benn gets his hands on the WBC 147lb title from Barrios, some big fights would be available to him against these fighters:
– Ryan Garcia
– Devin Haney
– Teofimo Lopez
– Jaron ‘Boots’ Ennis
– Manny Pacquiao
The big money fight opportunities would be endless for Conor if he could win the WBC belt from Barrios. The 29-year-old Barrios recently claimed his WBC 147-pound belt via email from the World Boxing Council.
Barrios was initially the WBC Interim Champion after defeating an exhausted-looking Yordenis Ugas via a 12-round unanimous decision on September 30, 2023. He was elevated to full WBC Champion last year and made one defense of the belt, fighting to a 12-round draw. vs. Abel Ramos on November 15th at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.
Barrios’ performance was poor. He was dropped in the sixth round and appeared to have lost the fight. The judges gave him a draw, but many boxing fans believe he should have lost.
This would be the first world title challenge in the nine-year career of the 28-year-old Ben (23-0, 14 KOs), but better late than never. Benn did not have an amateur background like some of the talented fighters who were quickly maneuvered into a title shot shortly after turning pro.
“There is no companionship.” I’m locked out. 2025 – WBC World Champion,” Conor Benn said on social media, making it clear he’s targeting Mario Barrios for his light heavyweight title next year.
🔒 u.
VBC World Champion 🔜 pic.twitter.com/C6ouKgTdFp— Conor Nigel Benn (@ConorNigel) January 2, 2025
