Ryan Garcia delivered a ruthless second-round stoppage against Briton Conor Benn in Las Vegas, successfully defending his WBC welterweight crown. The American champion, 28, dominated from the outset, punishing Benn who adopted an increasingly desperate approach.
Benn, 29, was dropped by a right hook in the second round but managed to beat the count. However, Garcia continued his onslaught, pinning Benn against the ropes until the referee stepped in to end the fight.
Garcia told DAZN, "I knew he would bring the pressure, I felt the shots and though 'I'll let him have his way', but I knew his was reckless and you can't do that with me." He added, "147lb is my division. I'm here, you can trust me as a champion."
This marked Benn's second defeat in his 10-year professional career and his final appearance at welterweight, a division he had not fought in for over four years. Garcia's victory was his 26th from 28 professional contests and his first successful defence of the title.