Conor Benn has expressed unwavering confidence that Zuffa Boxing is receiving substantial value from their monumental one-fight agreement, valued at an impressive £11.19 million. This high-stakes deal is set to conclude following Benn's upcoming bout against Regis Prograis this Saturday.
A Strategic Career Move
The 29-year-old welterweight contender will appear on the undercard of the Tyson Fury versus Arslanbek Makhmudov event at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. This marks Benn's first ring appearance since his decisive points victory over Chris Eubank Jr in November.
After being promoted exclusively by Eddie Hearn throughout his entire professional career, Benn made a surprising shift in February. He joined forces with Zuffa Boxing, a collaborative venture spearheaded by UFC chief executive Dana White and Saudi Arabian powerbroker Turki Alalshikh.
Eyes on Future Opportunities
Benn has hinted that this partnership may extend beyond his initial Netflix debut fight. He is already setting his sights on a potential world title challenge against WBC welterweight champion Ryan Garcia, tentatively scheduled for September.
"Zuffa wanted to make noise – and that’s exactly what they’ve done," Benn stated, referring to his catchweight contest against Prograis at 150lbs. "I don’t see much bigger announcements that have gone so viral off an announcement of a signing, not even a fight. They’ve done exactly what they needed to do and it’s a privilege that I’m that guy."
He further elaborated on his post-fight status, noting, "After Saturday I’ll be a completely free agent. Obviously Zuffa are in the driving seat because of the way they’ve looked after me so well. I’m extremely blessed by this opportunity. Of course the amount is lovely, but also the opportunity and to be able to fight so soon."
Navigating Past Allegiances
Eddie Hearn was reportedly taken aback by Benn's decision to depart Matchroom for a direct competitor. Hearn described being notified via email as a "dagger in the heart," adding that "I literally died on a hill for him."
The promoter had stood by Benn during a challenging period in 2022, when the fighter faced suspension due to a failed drugs test—a ban that was eventually overturned. Hearn also facilitated the two high-profile fights against Eubank Jr and claims to have provided a loan of £550,000 to his former protégé.
Benn, who has denied receiving any such financial assistance, maintains that the extraordinary financial incentives presented by Zuffa Boxing were simply impossible to refuse. Despite the rift, he remains open to reconciliation.
"It’s not all black and white, that’s all I can say on it. But ultimately, I have no feeling in my heart towards Eddie," Benn remarked. "What I do know, what I can say, is my kids are set up for life. What I can say is this changes my kids’ kids’ lives. What I can say is this an opportunity I couldn’t turn down, irrelevant of all the noise, irrelevant of everything."
He concluded on a conciliatory note, expressing, "And hopefully we can sit down and I hope he does knock on my (changing room) door. You know, I love Eddie."
