Eddie Hearn, a prominent boxing promoter, has publicly expressed his disappointment following the decision of boxer Conor Benn to sign with Zuffa Boxing, a rival promotion led by Dana White. This move marks the end of a decade-long association between Benn and Hearn's Matchroom Boxing. Hearn stated he felt "devastated" by the news and suggested he may have "misjudged" Benn's character.
Background of the Partnership and Departure
Conor Benn, 29, who holds a professional boxing record of 24 wins and 1 loss, was a fighter with Matchroom Boxing for ten years. During this time, Hearn supported Benn, even when others did not, and provided financial assistance. The decision to leave was announced by Benn on a Thursday.
Benn has been actively seeking fights with other prominent boxers, notably Ryan Garcia.
Hearn stated he learned of Benn's decision through an email from Benn's legal team.
Hearn indicated he attempted to arrange a phone call with Benn before the signing but was unsuccessful.
Reports suggest Benn has signed a multi-fight contract, with some speculation pointing to a one-fight deal.
Dana White, head of Zuffa Boxing, has welcomed Benn, calling him a "huge addition" and "an absolute beast and a superstar."
Hearn's Reaction and Perceived Disappointment
Eddie Hearn has made several public statements regarding Benn's departure. He conveyed a sense of being let down, stating that he had always backed Benn, even lending him significant sums of money.
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"You know when no one believed him, no one backed him, I did. I believed him and I backed him and I never gave in… When he was done, loaned him hundreds of thousands of pounds.” - Eddie Hearn
Hearn also voiced his belief that Benn refused to engage in a direct conversation about the move.
Hearn described the news of Benn's signing as a "shock."
He suggested that his perception of Benn's character might have been inaccurate.
The promoter indicated that the process of hearing about the signing via email was unusual.
Benn's Stated Motivations for the Move
Conor Benn has framed his move to Zuffa Boxing as a strategic step toward securing significant fights and building his legacy. He expressed his readiness for new challenges and opportunities.
"I'm filled with excitement and hunger for what's ahead with Zuffa Boxing… I fear no man at any weight, and I'm ready to give the fans the fights they've been calling for." - Conor Benn
Benn's stated goal is to achieve "legacy fights" on major platforms.
A potential fight with Ryan Garcia is a publicly stated ambition for Benn.
The financial aspect of the deal is described as substantial, with reports mentioning an "eight-figure" sum.
Zuffa Boxing's Perspective on the Signing
Dana White has publicly welcomed Conor Benn to Zuffa Boxing, highlighting the boxer's talent and marketability. His statements indicate enthusiasm for Benn's potential within the promotion.
"Conor Benn is an absolute beast and a superstar." - Dana White
White views Benn's addition as a significant asset to Zuffa Boxing.
The signing is seen as a competitive move in the boxing promotion landscape.
Analysis of the Partnership Shift
The departure of Conor Benn from Matchroom Boxing represents a notable shift in the professional landscape for both the boxer and the promoter. Hearn's statements suggest a personal disappointment, stemming from a long-standing professional relationship and perceived loyalty.
Hearn's role: He emphasized his consistent support and financial backing of Benn throughout their ten-year association.
Benn's perspective: He appears motivated by the pursuit of high-profile bouts and a desire for a new career chapter.
The negotiation process: Hearn's account suggests a lack of direct communication from Benn regarding the contract negotiations with Zuffa Boxing.
The exact terms and duration of Benn's contract with Zuffa Boxing remain subjects of some discussion, with reports varying on whether it is a multi-fight agreement or specifically for one bout.
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Sources Used:
Sports Illustrated (si.com): Reported on Eddie Hearn's initial public statements following Conor Benn's move to Zuffa Boxing.
MMAMania (mmamania.com): Provided details on Eddie Hearn's reaction, including his feeling of being "devastated" and his comments on misjudging Benn's character.
BJPenn.com: Covered Eddie Hearn's public remarks and his accusation that Benn refused a pre-deal phone call.
TalkSPORT: Reported on Conor Benn's official split from Matchroom and Eddie Hearn, citing the boxer's inability to "refuse" the Zuffa Boxing offer and mentioning potential future opponents.
Link: https://www.talksport.com/boxing/3999206/conor-benn-joins-zuffa-boxing-eddie-hearn-dana-white/
Internewscast Journal: Detailed Eddie Hearn's disappointment and his mention of being denied a direct conversation with Benn.
Daily Mail: Reported on Conor Benn's split from Eddie Hearn after 10 years, noting the "eight-figure" deal with Zuffa Boxing and Benn's ambition for "legacy fights" and a potential match with Ryan Garcia.
