Eddie Hearn Devastated Conor Benn Signs With Zuffa Boxing After 10 Years

Promoter Eddie Hearn said he felt 'devastated' and 'let down' after Conor Benn left his company, Matchroom Boxing, to sign with Dana White's Zuffa Boxing. This is a big change after a 10-year partnership.
By Newsroom | Boxing, Sports |

Eddie Hearn, a prominent boxing promoter, has publicly stated his profound disappointment and sense of devastation following Conor Benn's decision to sign with Zuffa Boxing, a company led by Dana White. This development marks a significant shift for Benn, who had a decade-long association with Hearn's Matchroom Boxing. The split has been described as "painful" by Hearn, who also suggested he may have misjudged Benn's character.

'Devastated' Eddie Hearn hits out at Conor Benn after boxer dumped promoter for Dana White's fledgling company - and reveals star's shocking reaction when he asked for a phone call moments before 'painful' split - 1

Transition Follows Long-Standing Relationship and Recent Developments

Conor Benn, the 29-year-old son of boxing legend Nigel Benn, announced his departure from Matchroom Boxing on Thursday. This decision comes after a period of significant career advancement for Benn, including a victory over Chris Eubank Jr. in November, which positions him for a potential world title challenge. Throughout a past doping controversy, Hearn offered Benn steadfast support and was instrumental in orchestrating his path towards a championship bout.

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'Devastated' Eddie Hearn hits out at Conor Benn after boxer dumped promoter for Dana White's fledgling company - and reveals star's shocking reaction when he asked for a phone call moments before 'painful' split - 2

  • The boxer's move to Zuffa Boxing has been framed as a "shocking" development.

  • Speculation is circulating that Benn might pursue a fight with Ryan Garcia under his new promotion.

  • Dana White has welcomed Benn, calling him an "absolute beast and a superstar" and a "huge addition" to his team.

Hearn Cites Loyalty and Lack of Direct Communication

Eddie Hearn revealed that he learned of Benn's decision through an email from the boxer's lawyer. He indicated that when he attempted to arrange a phone call with Benn immediately after receiving the email, his request was denied. Hearn emphasized the loyalty and backing he provided to Benn, particularly during challenging times.

'Devastated' Eddie Hearn hits out at Conor Benn after boxer dumped promoter for Dana White's fledgling company - and reveals star's shocking reaction when he asked for a phone call moments before 'painful' split - 3

  • Hearn stated, "I believed him and I backed him and I never gave in."

  • He expressed a feeling of being let down, noting, "I just felt that the loyalty that we've shown would never, ever put us in this position…"

  • Hearn also reflected, "After everything I’ve done for you I think I deserve a call."

Conflicting Narratives on Loyalty and Character

The parting of ways has brought to light differing perspectives on loyalty and the nature of professional relationships within boxing. Hearn articulated his belief that his long-term support for Benn, including financial assistance during difficult periods, warranted a direct conversation before the signing was finalized.

'Devastated' Eddie Hearn hits out at Conor Benn after boxer dumped promoter for Dana White's fledgling company - and reveals star's shocking reaction when he asked for a phone call moments before 'painful' split - 4

  • Hearn’s remarks suggest a perceived breach of trust, stating, "So like I said, maybe he’s not quite the person I thought he was."

  • He implied that he may have "misjudged Conor Benn's character" due to the circumstances of the split.

  • Benn's own statement, cited in reports, focuses on pursuing "legacy fights" and "the biggest nights," suggesting a strategic career move.

Zuffa Boxing Welcomes Benn Amidst Promoter Rivalry

The signing of Conor Benn by Zuffa Boxing occurs amidst a backdrop of escalating professional rivalry between Eddie Hearn and Dana White. Recently, White made critical remarks about Hearn's promotional capabilities, which Hearn countered by referencing White's superior, "Big Boss" Al Alshikh. Benn's move is seen as a significant acquisition for Zuffa Boxing as it establishes its presence in the boxing landscape.

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  • Dana White characterized Benn's signing as a "huge addition" to his roster.

  • Benn's professional record stands at 24 wins and 1 loss.

  • The terms of Benn's contract with Zuffa Boxing are described as one of the most substantial in recent boxing history.

Future Implications and Potential Matchups

Conor Benn's departure from Matchroom Boxing and his alignment with Zuffa Boxing opens up new possibilities for his career trajectory. With Benn now part of Dana White's promotional stable, questions arise about his immediate future and potential opponents within this new framework.

  • It is being suggested that Benn may target the welterweight championship within Zuffa Boxing.

  • The possibility of a highly anticipated bout against Ryan Garcia is a prominent point of discussion.

  • Hearn acknowledged that he might have "forgot it was boxing" in his approach to Benn's career management.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why is Eddie Hearn devastated about Conor Benn joining Zuffa Boxing?
Eddie Hearn feels devastated and let down because Conor Benn left Matchroom Boxing, a company he was with for 10 years, to sign with Zuffa Boxing. Hearn stated he learned about the move through an email and felt Benn showed a lack of loyalty after Hearn supported him through difficult times.
Q: How long was Conor Benn with Matchroom Boxing before joining Zuffa Boxing?
Conor Benn was with Matchroom Boxing for 10 years before he made the decision to sign with Zuffa Boxing. This long-term relationship made the split particularly painful for promoter Eddie Hearn.
Q: What did Eddie Hearn say about Conor Benn's character after the move?
Eddie Hearn suggested he may have misjudged Conor Benn's character. He felt that after all the support he gave Benn, especially during a past doping controversy, he deserved a direct phone call about the decision, not just an email from a lawyer.
Q: Who is Conor Benn likely to fight next with Zuffa Boxing?
With Conor Benn now signed to Zuffa Boxing, led by Dana White, there is talk he might fight Ryan Garcia. Benn's move is seen as a major step for Zuffa Boxing as it enters the boxing world, and he is aiming for big fights and potential world titles.
Q: What is Zuffa Boxing and who leads it?
Zuffa Boxing is a new boxing promotion company led by Dana White, who is also the head of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). Dana White has welcomed Conor Benn, calling him a 'superstar' and a 'huge addition' to his team.