In a surprising turn of events within the boxing world, welterweight sensation Conor Benn has officially parted ways with Eddie Hearn's Matchroom promotional stable, opting to sign with Dana White's Zuffa Boxing. This move has left Hearn reeling, as he had nurtured Benn's career since his professional debut in 2016 and stood by him through a tumultuous two-year doping suspension. Hearn's candid reflections reveal a deep sense of personal and professional betrayal, underscoring the cutthroat realities of the boxing industry.
Boxing Promoter Eddie Hearn Expresses Devastation Over Conor Benn's Departure
In a somber conversation, Matchroom Boxing head Eddie Hearn conveyed his profound disappointment regarding Conor Benn's departure to Zuffa Boxing. The news, which broke on a Friday, sent shockwaves through the boxing community, particularly given Hearn's unwavering support for Benn through a challenging period. Hearn candidly stated that he felt let down, attributing some blame to himself for misjudging the loyalty he believed existed between them. He recounted attempting to reach out to Benn for a discussion following the announcement, only to be met with a refusal, leaving him to grapple with the unexpected turn of events.
Hearn's extensive career has seen many fighters move on, but Benn's exit was particularly agonizing. Just days before the announcement, Matchroom had unveiled a significant five-year extension with DAZN, with Benn prominently featured as a key asset. The promoter revealed that subsequent text exchanges with Benn were not amicable. He lamented the "wasted years" and the immense personal and financial investment he had made, including substantial loans to cover Benn's legal fees during his two-year suspension for failing drug tests. This period, which began in the summer of 2022, saw many turn against Benn, but Hearn steadfastly defended his fighter's innocence, enduring significant public criticism and making headlines for his staunch support. Benn's manager, Keith Connolly, has a history of his fighters, such as Edgar Berlanga and Richardson Hitchins, leaving Matchroom, adding another layer of complexity to the situation. Hearn concluded by reiterating his self-blame for taking loyalty for granted and acknowledging that Benn might not be the person he once believed him to be.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the often-unforgiving nature of professional sports, where personal bonds can be tested by lucrative opportunities. It highlights the delicate balance between loyalty, business, and personal ambition, prompting reflection on the values that truly endure in competitive environments. For promoters like Hearn, it underscores the constant risk of investing in talent, both financially and emotionally, only to face the potential for unexpected changes in allegiance.