Garcia vs. Benn: Briton Conor Benn ‘dragged into hell’ due to weight loss

Despite all the difficulties associated with losing weight, there were few outward signs that Benn was burdened by the event.

He was relaxed and in good spirits as he spent time with the traveling British media at the Meta Apex UFC, alongside his father and British boxing great Nigel Benn.

The former two-division world champion was a strong presence throughout fight week, despite previously suggesting he would take a step back in his son’s career.

However, Conor Benn has yet to face one man who is his opponent.

Garcia did not show up for his scheduled fight in Mandalay Bay on Tuesday, and Benn said in advance that the champion would not be in attendance.

Benn showed up against all odds and instead jokingly dealt with his 62-year-old father.

He called Garcia a “weird weirdo” and said the no-show did the champion “no favors.”

“It doesn’t bother me, I’ve dealt with worse situations,” added Conor Benn. “Whether he shows up or not, it doesn’t matter to me.

“No matter how hard it is to lose weight or anything else, we have a responsibility to give the fans what they want. This is a lack of discipline and professionalism.”