Conor Benn's welterweight comeback sparks debate: Is he ready for a title shot? | Boxing News
Conor Benn's return to the welterweight division is generating buzz, but not everyone is convinced he's earned a title shot. While some boxing fans celebrate his comeback, others question his readiness, especially after a recent interview with IBF welterweight champion Lewis Crocker.
Crocker, a reigning 147-pound champion, believes Benn is world-class but isn't sure about his immediate status as the WBC's mandatory challenger. He highlights Benn's lack of welterweight action in three years, suggesting a potential need for a warm-up fight before a world title shot.
"Conor works hard, so I wouldn't say he doesn't deserve a world title shot," Crocker said. "However, I'm not sure he should have been made mandatory straight away. He hasn't fought at 147 pounds in three years, so maybe a welterweight warm-up fight is warranted."
Crocker's skepticism stems from Benn's recent history. After a failed drugs test, Benn's ascent up the 147-pound rankings was halted. He then shifted to super-welterweight and middleweight, where he faced Chris Eubank Jr. twice in 2025, losing his undefeated record but avenging the loss soon after.
Despite these challenges, Benn's return to his natural weight class has made him the WBC's mandatory challenger. He's set to challenge the winner of the Mario Barrios vs. Ryan Garcia bout for the WBC title later this year.
Crocker, however, believes Benn's skills could be a threat to the current champions. "I think he could definitely beat Barrios and even Rolly Romero, the WBA champion," he said. "He has a lot of power."
When asked about a potential fight with Benn, Crocker confidently stated, "I have always backed myself. Me against Conor Benn would be fireworks from the start. I don't think it would go the distance."
The IBF's 10-pound rehydration clause has prevented Benn from targeting Crocker directly. However, this rule wouldn't apply to a unification fight if Benn were to win an alternate title. Before Crocker can focus on Benn, he must defend his belt in Australia against Liam Paro.
The debate over Benn's readiness for a title shot continues, leaving fans to ponder: Is he truly world-class, or is there more to prove before the big fight?
