TLDR
- Conor Benn has signed with Zuffa Boxing and Dana White after 10 years with Eddie Hearn and Matchroom Boxing
- Benn publicly thanked Hearn and asked him to continue being part of his team in a new capacity
- The fighter said Zuffa Boxing presented an opportunity he ‘simply couldn’t refuse’
- Recent public disputes between Eddie Hearn and Dana White make continued collaboration unlikely
- Eddie Hearn has not yet commented on Benn’s departure or his request to remain involved
Sources: Boxing News Online | Bloody Elbow
Conor Benn has announced his departure from Matchroom Boxing and Eddie Hearn after 10 years together, signing instead with Dana White’s Zuffa Boxing. In his announcement, Benn made clear he wants Hearn to remain part of his team in some capacity.
Benn and Hearn’s partnership began in 2016 when the fighter turned professional. The relationship lasted through major career highs, including headlining stadium shows and his recent victory over Chris Eubank Jr.
The two also weathered difficult periods together. This included Benn’s extended drug testing controversy that started with a failed test in October 2022.
Benn Thanks Hearn in Social Media Statement
In a social media post announcing the move, Benn expressed his appreciation for Hearn and the entire Matchroom team. He credited them with guiding him from his debut through becoming a headlining fighter.
“They were not only with me for those highlight moments but stood shoulder to shoulder with me during the tough times,” Benn wrote. He added that he would “always be truly grateful” for their belief, support and guidance.
Benn then explained that Zuffa Boxing had presented him with an opportunity he “simply couldn’t refuse.” He stated his desire to pursue “legacy fights, the biggest nights, the biggest stages.”
The 28-year-old fighter made a direct appeal to his former promoter. “I’d love Eddie to continue to be part of my team and for our partnership to evolve in this new chapter,” Benn said.
Benn declared he is “in my prime” and ready to give fans the fights they have been requesting. He said he fears “no man at any weight.”
Hearn and White Relationship Creates Complications
Despite Benn’s stated wishes, a continued working relationship with Hearn appears unlikely. The Matchroom chairman and UFC CEO Dana White have engaged in recent public disputes.
The two promoters have exchanged verbal attacks in recent weeks. This ongoing conflict makes collaboration between them difficult.
Hearn has not yet publicly responded to Benn’s announcement or his request to remain involved. The Matchroom promoter’s perspective on the split remains unknown.
Benn’s signing with Zuffa Boxing marks a major shift in his career trajectory. After his November victory over Eubank Jr, many expected Benn to pursue more big fights under the Matchroom banner.
Instead, the fighter has chosen to align himself with White and Zuffa Boxing. Benn stated he has “bold, ambitious plans” with his new promotional company.
The move ends one of Matchroom’s longest-standing fighter relationships. Benn became a professional fighter under Hearn’s guidance and developed into a main event attraction during their decade together.
Benn described feeling “filled with excitement and hunger” for what lies ahead with Zuffa Boxing. He emphasized his readiness to compete at the highest level against any opponent.
