Dana White Targeting Conor Benn vs Ryan Garcia After Again Signing British Talent to Zuffa Boxing

UFC CEO Dana White greenlights Conor Benn's wish to fight Ryan Garcia after the Britain native signs a new deal with Zuffa Boxing.

Dana White Targeting Conor Benn vs Ryan Garcia After Again Signing British Talent to Zuffa Boxing

Dana White and Conor Benn decide on Ryan Garcia (via Instagram, The Ring Magazine)

In Short
  • Dana White is expanding Zuffa Boxing by signing British talent, including Conor Benn.
  • Conor Benn has finalized a five-fight deal with Zuffa Boxing and is targeting Ryan Garcia as his next opponent.
  • Dana White's partnership with Saudi official Turki Alalshikh is influencing the future of boxing events under Zuffa.

Dana White’s push to reshape boxing under the Zuffa banner is taking form as the longtime UFC boss expands into the sport. The model aims to modernize traditional structures by centralizing matchmaking and ensuring consistent scheduling. White has been signing established names to build the roster. Among the first additions was Conor Benn, who has now finalized a multi-fight deal with Zuffa Boxing.

Benn has already competed under a Zuffa Boxing deal, appearing on the undercard of the Tyson Fury vs Arslanbek Makhmudov event. He earned a unanimous decision victory over Regis Prograis, reinforcing his position in the welterweight division. The performance helped sustain his winning momentum following his victory over Chris Eubank Jr in November 2025, further strengthening his standing.

Details of Benn’s new agreement involve TKO Group, with White working alongside WWE executive Nick Khan in shaping Zuffa Boxing’s plans. The deal outlines a five-fight commitment to keep Benn active on major cards. Both later appeared on First Take with Stephen A. Smith to discuss the promotion. During the appearance, Benn identified Ryan Garcia as his preferred next opponent, an idea that White approved of.

That’s why I’m in the business. To make the fights people wanna see.

Dana White via First Take

Interestingly, the British star’s earlier deal with Zuffa Boxing was substantial, as he reportedly earned $15 million for his bout against Regis Prograis. The figure drew attention across combat sports due to its scale for a single fight. It sparked scrutiny from top UFC champions. Fighters like Sean O’Malley and Israel Adesanya questioned the disparity compared to their own earnings at the peak of their title reigns.

A matchup with Garcia could suit Benn, as ‘King Ry’ is coming off a dominant unanimous decision win over Mario Barrios in February 2026. The bout would match two active welterweights with strong momentum in the division. However, the pairing carries prior tension between the fighters. Garcia had criticized Benn after his failed drug test in 2022, which led to a suspension that sidelined him until 2024.

Ryan Garcia is also at odds with top UFC lightweight Arman Tsarukyan after the latter accused him of not paying a $40,000 bet. The situation has added another layer of tension around Garcia’s current position in combat sports. Both fighters have since issued challenges toward each other, further escalating the situation. Regardless of the outcome, Dana White holds the reins on Conor Benn’s next move.

Dana White hints at Saudi involvement in potential fight against rival promoter

The relationship between Dana White and Turki Alalshikh has become a key force in boxing’s recent shift. Alalshikh, a Saudi official and chairman of the General Entertainment Authority, has played a major role in funding global fight events. The two aligned in 2025 to launch Zuffa Boxing, backed by TKO Group and Saudi investment. White oversees operations while Alalshikh provides financial backing and event influence.

Dana White's Zuffa Boxing's next plan
Dana White’s Zuffa Boxing’s next plan (via X)

Tensions have also grown between White and Matchroom Boxing chairman Eddie Hearn in recent months following the launch of Zuffa Boxing. Hearn has publicly challenged White to a boxing match and issued warnings as the rivalry intensified. White has not backed down; instead, he has welcomed the challenge. He also indicated that Alalshikh is willing to make the fight happen and called out Hearn.

Let me tell you what, if that did happen, me and Eddie Hearn are bums. We would be the first fight of the night. Bums. Okay? Whoever was talented on that card should be insulted if he and I were anywhere near any other slot other than the first fight of the night, and it shouldn’t even be on TV. You don’t think Turki would try to do that fight? Of course they did, yeah, people are throwing offers around everywhere.

Dana White via UFC

While there has been significant talk of the two promoters facing off, recent comments from Dana White point to a more realistic outlook. Eddie Hearn is 46, while the UFC boss is 56, and both lead their organizations. Their responsibilities within Zuffa Boxing, UFC, and Matchroom limit the likelihood of a bout. However, the track record of Turki Alalshikh suggests he delivers on matchups he pursues.

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