Conor Benn Departs Matchroom for Zuffa Boxing, Leaving Eddie Hearn 'Devastated' After Lawyer Email

Conor Benn has ended a decade-long relationship with his longtime promoter to sign with Dana White's Zuffa Boxing, a move that left promoter Eddie Hearn describing the news as a "dagger in the heart" after first learning of the switch through an email from the boxer's lawyer.

Eddie Hearn's reaction to Conor Benn's decision

Eddie Hearn said he was shocked and deeply hurt by the development, describing a sense of devastation when he received formal notice by email rather than a personal call. He conveyed regret that he had not pushed Benn to sign a new contract and acknowledged feeling that he misjudged the fighter's character and loyalty. Hearn also indicated he had exchanged messages with Benn since the announcement and has not ruled out the possibility of working together again in some capacity.

Conor Benn signs with Zuffa Boxing for 'legacy fights'

The move to Zuffa Boxing was framed by Conor Benn as a step toward "legacy fights" and the "biggest stages. " In a written statement, Benn thanked his former promoters for a decade of support and said he was excited and hungry for what lies ahead with his new promotional team. He expressed ambition to pursue high-profile opponents and marquee events as part of the next chapter in his career.

Benn's recent ring history and competitive standing

Conor Benn returned to the ring following a period away and the promoter relationship that supported him through that time. He beat long-time rival Chris Eubank Jr in a high-profile rematch at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in November, having lost their first meeting in April. After that rematch win he moved down in weight with the stated aim of achieving a world title. His record and status have positioned him for prominent opportunities in the welterweight landscape.

Financial and trust issues at the heart of the split

Hearn said he had backed Benn during the fighter's time out of the ring and had lent substantial sums to support him, noting financial and personal investment in Benn's career. That history intensified Hearn's reaction when the split was announced by lawyer email and when Benn declined an immediate phone call to discuss the change. Hearn described feeling that the relationship had been lost by the time formal notice arrived.

What both men have said and potential next steps

Conor Benn publicly thanked his former promoters for guiding him from his professional debut through stadium headliners and said they had stood "shoulder to shoulder" during difficult moments. He emphasized his readiness to face top opponents and his desire for legacy-defining bouts under his new promotional arrangement. Hearn stressed his disappointment but left open the possibility of collaboration in future, framing the episode as a painful lesson about trust and management in the sport.

These developments mark a clear break in a relationship that began when Benn turned professional and have immediate implications for matchmaking and promotional strategy. Both men have signaled differing priorities: Benn seeking new platforms for high-profile fights, and Hearn reflecting on the costs of long-term investment in talent. Recent updates indicate further details may emerge as both sides clarify plans and potential fight dates are negotiated.