Mark Magsayo sees 50-50 fight between Ryan Garcia, Conor Benn

Mark “Magnifico” Magsayo sees no clear favorite between Ryan Garcia and Conor Benn as the two stars prepare to collide on Sunday (Philippine time) in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Garcia and Benn will headline the card, where Magsayo will also see action.

The former WBC world featherweight champion expects a tightly contested fight when the two finally meet.

“I want both of them to win. Let’s just see inside the ring. Whoever is more eager and has the will to win will take it," said Magsayo.

Magsayo is convinced Benn could have a chance to pull off an upset if he can withstand an expected early onslaught from “King Ry.”

“If Conor can handle Garcia's power in the early rounds, if he can survive coming down in weight like that, there is a possibility Conor can win,” Magsayo said.

“Because Ryan Garcia isn't used to being constantly pressured. So he might get surprised by that, right? We never know. At the same time, if Ryan's hook lands, Conor could be in trouble too. So it feels like 50-50 to me.”

Meanwhile, Magsayo sees being part of such a high-profile event as another opportunity to showcase himself under Zuffa Boxing. He’ll take on undefeated American Andres Cortes in a 10-round lightweight clash.

“I am super thankful and grateful to God. Secondly, through Dana White's promotion, I was given the opportunity to perform in big fights,” said Magsayo.

“Now, all I have to do is show my best, my skills, and my talent as a boxer inside the ring so the fans can enjoy.”

The 31-year-old Boholano is also embracing the comfort of fighting in Las Vegas, where he has lived since 2024. He has already competed several times in the city, including at premier venues such as the MGM Grand, T-Mobile Arena, and UFC APEX.

“It feels like my home court here because I've had several fights at the MGM, T-Mobile Arena, and APEX. Almost all of my fights are already here in Vegas,” he explained.

“I feel comfortable here because it’s like I know everyone. Here in Vegas, there are so many Filipinos. You go to the casino, the hotel, wherever you go, there's a Filipino.”

More than that, T-Mobile Arena holds a special place in Magsayo’s heart. After all, it was the site of his dramatic come-from-behind 10th-round knockout of Julio Ceja in a WBC title eliminator. He would go on to capture his first and only world title against Gary Russell Jr. in his next fight.

Alluding to this rich history, Magsayo is eager to recapture that big-fight magic.

“I already made history last time out at the T-Mobile Arena back in 2021,” the Filipino contender said. “Now, I will do everything in my power to prove that we can recreate that exact same magic once again.”

—JKC, GMA News