Conor Benn made number one challenger for WBC welterweight world title

Britain’s Conor Benn has been made the number one challenger to Mario Barrios’ WBC welterweight world title.

Benn, 29, was ranked number four in the WBC and has not fought at the welterweight limit since February 2022.

The WBC made the announcement at its annual convention, but Barrios is expected to defend his belt against fellow American Ryan Garcia next.

“I’ll be watching Barrios-Garcia closely,” Benn said on social media.

“I want the winner early next year. I’ll be coming for that belt and Britain will have a new world champion.”