Tony Sims Reveals Conor Benn’s Next Move After Ryan Garcia Defeat, Shuts Down Retirement Speculation

November 3, 2026 10 Views by

Conor Benn’s future in boxing remains a major talking point following his recent defeat to Ryan Garcia, but according to longtime trainer Tony Sims, the immediate priority is not another fight, retirement planning, or blockbuster negotiations. Instead, it is recovery.

Speaking publicly about Benn’s current situation, Sims made it clear that the British contender needs to step away from the sport temporarily after an intense stretch of activity that culminated in a stoppage loss to Garcia in a WBC welterweight title bout in Las Vegas. Reports from multiple boxing outlets indicate that Garcia stopped Benn in the second round and retained his championship, ending Benn’s bid to capture a world title at 147 pounds. [boxingnewsonline.net], [boxingnewsonline.net]

Tony Sims Wants Conor Benn to Take a Complete Break

Sims emphasized that Benn has been through a physically and mentally demanding period, including multiple consecutive training camps and significant weight-management challenges.

Rather than rushing back into competition, the trainer believes the best course of action is for Benn to take a complete break from boxing and focus on his personal life. The recommendation reflects concerns about both physical recovery and mental burnout following an exhausting run of preparation and high-profile fights.

According to Sims, spending time with family is currently more important than discussing future opponents, rankings, or title opportunities. With a new baby at home and a long career still potentially ahead of him, Benn is being encouraged to recharge before making any major decisions.

Retirement Is Not on the Table

Despite speculation from some observers following the defeat, Sims dismissed retirement talk.

The trainer indicated that conversations about ending Benn’s career are premature and misplaced. While acknowledging the disappointment of the loss, Sims believes the former welterweight contender still has plenty left to offer the sport.

Instead of focusing on retirement, the camp is concentrating on rest, reflection, and recovery before evaluating the next stage of Benn’s boxing journey.

That stance aligns with previous comments Sims has made suggesting that Benn would likely want to continue fighting rather than allow a stoppage defeat to serve as the final chapter of his career. [boxingnewsonline.net]

Future Fights Remain Possible, But Not a Priority

Naturally, questions have already emerged regarding potential future opponents.

Names such as Conor McGregor and Chris Eubank Jr. continue to generate intrigue among boxing fans. A third fight with Eubank Jr. would likely attract significant attention given the rivalry between the sons of British boxing legends Nigel Benn and Chris Eubank.

Sims acknowledged that major fights could materialize in the future but stressed that no active discussions are taking place at this time. His position remains consistent: Benn’s immediate focus should be recovery, not contract negotiations.

With boxing often driven by timing as much as talent, there appears to be little urgency from Team Benn to map out the next fight while the fighter is still processing a difficult defeat.

Sims Backs Craig Richards to Return Strong

Beyond discussing Benn, Sims also offered support for stablemate Craig Richards.

Although Richards is coming off a loss, Sims praised the light heavyweight as a world-class fighter and expressed confidence that he will return to action in February.

The veteran trainer suggested that one defeat does not diminish Richards’ ability or standing within the sport, highlighting his belief that the London fighter remains capable of competing at a high level.

Fury vs. Joshua Remains a Genuine Toss-Up

Sims also weighed in on one of British boxing’s most debated potential matchups: Tyson Fury versus Anthony Joshua.

Rather than strongly favoring either man, Sims described the contest as a true 50-50 fight. In his view, both heavyweights are beyond their absolute prime years, making the outcome dependent on who can produce the better performance on the night.

It is a perspective likely shared by many fans who have watched both former champions experience ups and downs during the latter stages of their careers.

Anthony Joshua Still Carries Fight-Changing Power

While acknowledging that Joshua is in the later phase of his career, Sims was quick to point out that the former unified heavyweight champion remains a dangerous force.

The trainer highlighted Joshua’s punching power as an attribute that has not disappeared with age. According to Sims, Joshua still possesses the ability to knock out any heavyweight in the world, ensuring he remains relevant in elite-level competition despite recent setbacks.

What’s Next for Conor Benn?

For now, there is no comeback date, no confirmed opponent, and no clear roadmap toward Benn’s next appearance.

What is clear is that Tony Sims believes the boxer needs time away from the demands of training camps, weight cuts, and fight-week pressures. Retirement is not being considered, future superfights can wait, and the emphasis is firmly on recovery.

When Benn eventually returns, boxing fans will be eager to see whether the former contender can rebuild momentum after the most significant setback of his professional career.

Sources

Tags: Conor Benn, Tony Sims, Ryan Garcia, Boxing News, Chris Eubank Jr, Anthony Joshua, Tyson Fury, Craig Richards, British Boxing, WBC Welterweight Title, Boxing Training, Professional Boxing, Fight News, Boxing Analysis, Las Vegas Boxing Event

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by Oscar Madison - Nov 3, 2026

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