Conor Benn is set to return to the welterweight division, as he prepares to become world champion for the first time. Now, “The Destroyer” has revealed the three potential 147-pound opponents he’s concerned about for 2026.
Benn last fought at welterweight in 2022, when he knocked out Chris van Heerden in just two rounds, before testing positive for clomiphene later in the calendar, and then fighting at super welterweight upon his return the following year.
In 2025, Benn progressed further, twice facing fierce rival Chris Eubank Jr. in back-to-back middleweight clashes, where he suffered a first career loss in their first meeting but gained revenge in their rematch.
Following this career-best victory, the 29-year-old said he will now end a nearly four-year hiatus from what he believes to be his natural weight class and campaign as a welterweight again.
In an interview with DAZN Boxing, Benn named three American fighters as his planned dance partners ahead of his return to the welterweight scene.
“I know we’re working to get Ryan Garcia to fight, so God willing, he’ll be next, no doubt.
“[If not Garcia]Devin Haney, Shakur Stevenson, any of them can get it.
Garcia is scheduled to face Mario Barrios for the WBC welterweight title in February, meaning any showdown with Benn would likely take place this summer and depend on who leaves the ring with the belt.
Meanwhile, Shakur Stevenson faces Teofimo Lopez on Saturday, January 31 in New York, as the lightweight ruler moves up to 140 pounds and attempts to win Lopez’s WBO super lightweight world title, with Benn a possible opponent for a 147-pound debut down the line. Stevenson said he would like a rehydration clause if negotiations are to be serious.
Finally, Devin Haney dethroned Brian Norman Jr. to get his hands on the WBO welterweight crown last month. Now he is linked with a unified title fight with Belfast’s IBF titleholder Lewis Crocker, but a fight with Benn would be a more lucrative proposition and could turn his head.
