Barry Hearn strongly criticized the manner in which Conor Benn departed from Matchroom to join Zuffa Boxing, bypassing any communication with Eddie Hearn. The 29-year-old officially announced the split and will now be managed by the Saudi-backed promoter led by UFC president Dana White.
Benn chose to part ways with the promoters who supported him for a decade, including during a previous failed drugs test. Despite Eddie Hearn’s praise for Benn after his victory over Chris Eubank Jnr, Benn expressed that Zuffa had offered him an opportunity he couldn’t resist, showing no interest in discussing the matter with Eddie Hearn.
Expressing disappointment, Barry Hearn mentioned that Benn had received a substantial offer from Dana White but criticized the decision to leave the team that had supported him. Benn becomes the second high-profile signing for Zuffa after Jai Opetaia, following his win over Eubank Jnr.
Barry Hearn revealed that Conor Benn suggested dealing with the situation through lawyers when Eddie proposed a meeting, describing the situation as the most unpleasant and outrageous in his decades-long career. Benn defended his choice, stating that declining the lucrative offer would have been unreasonable.
While Barry Hearn acknowledged that Benn had the right to pursue other opportunities, he emphasized the importance of professionalism in handling such transitions. He noted the disparity in standards between the parties involved.
Overall, the departure of Conor Benn from Matchroom to join Zuffa Boxing has stirred controversy, highlighting the complexities of professional relationships in the sports industry.