Barry Hearn criticizes the lack of decorum in Conor Benn’s departure from Matchroom, shifting allegiance to Zuffa Boxing without engaging with Eddie Hearn. The 29-year-old finalized the split and will now be managed by the Saudi-supported promoter led by UFC president Dana White.
Benn chose to sever ties with the promoters who had supported him for a decade, even during a past drug test failure. Despite Eddie Hearn’s praise for Benn following his victory over Chris Eubank Jnr last year, Benn opted for Zuffa’s enticing offer without entertaining further discussions with Hearn.
Expressing disappointment, Barry Hearn stated that the situation transcended financial matters, emphasizing the importance of loyalty to a team that had supported Benn through thick and thin. Benn’s move to Zuffa makes him the second high-profile addition after cruiserweight champion Jai Opetaia, relinquishing opportunities previously highlighted by Eddie Hearn.
Hearn mentioned that when Eddie proposed a meeting to discuss the situation, Benn suggested involving lawyers, a decision that Hearn found appalling given their long-standing relationship. Benn, the WBC welterweight title mandatory challenger, defended his decision by highlighting the irresistible financial aspect of the offer.
Despite the turn of events, Hearn Sr. indicated that a different approach from Benn would have been more acceptable, emphasizing the importance of mutual standards. He clarified that they uphold high standards which were not reciprocated in this case.