Conor Benn has found himself back in the centre of the boxing conversation after being officially ranked number one by the WBC at welterweight. The announcement effectively makes him the mandatory challenger for the winner of the upcoming title fight between Mario Barrios and Ryan Garcia. It’s a development that Benn clearly views as both validation and motivation, as seen in his fresh reaction video circulating online.
In the short clip, Benn appears calm but confident, speaking directly to fans about what the number-one ranking means to him. Despite the scrutiny and setbacks of recent years, he insists he has stayed committed, continued working, and now feels he’s exactly where he should be in the division. His tone reflects a fighter who sees this moment not as luck, but as the result of persistence.
Conor Benn reacts to being ranked #1 by the WBC at welterweight, making him the mandatory for the Barrios vs Garcia winner 🏆 pic.twitter.com/oFDNn5QUsO
— Source of Boxing (@Sourceofboxing) December 2, 2025
What This Ranking Means for the Welterweight Division
The mandatory position places Benn in line for a world title shot the moment a champion emerges from the Barrios vs Garcia clash. Barrios currently holds the WBC welterweight belt, while Garcia, a former multi-division champion, aims to capture the title and re-establish himself at 147. Whoever wins will have to deal with Benn next, assuming he remains active and available.
For Benn, this ranking is more than a formality. It marks the first time since his career complications that he has been officially placed at the top of a major sanctioning body’s list. It signals reintegration into the world-title picture, and with it, renewed momentum behind his name.

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Benn’s reaction shows a fighter eager not only to compete but to prove he belongs at the very highest level. If the mandatory is enforced promptly, 2025 could finally be the year he gets his first world title opportunity. And given the styles of both potential opponents, it promises a compelling matchup no matter who emerges with the belt.
As things stand, Benn has made it clear he’s ready. Now, the division watches to see which champion he’ll face once Barrios and Garcia settle their business.







