Conor Benn Secures Major Zuffa Boxing Deal and Netflix Headliner
In a stunning move that has sent shockwaves through the boxing community, British welterweight Conor Benn has officially parted ways with long-time promoter Eddie Hearn. After a decade-long partnership, Benn has inked a lucrative eight-figure agreement to join Dana White's emerging promotion, Zuffa Boxing. This strategic shift marks a significant realignment in the sport's promotional landscape, as Benn aligns himself with the UFC chief's ambitious foray into boxing.
A Contentious Split and High-Profile Return
The announcement of Benn's departure from Hearn's stable was met with palpable disappointment from the promoter, who had staunchly supported the boxer through a tumultuous period. In 2022, Benn faced intense scrutiny and legal battles following two failed drug tests, which led to the cancellation of his highly anticipated bout with Chris Eubank Jr. Hearn revealed he was 'devastated' by the defection, particularly after providing financial and public backing during Benn's ordeal, including a reported loan of £500,000 after the collapsed fight.
Hearn expressed his disillusionment, stating, 'It is very disappointing considering everything I have done for him. Maybe I misjudged his character.' He criticised the manner of the split, noting it was conveyed via email without a follow-up call, adding, 'You just lose a bit of your soul to it.' This sentiment was echoed by rival promoter Frank Warren, who quoted former US President Harry S. Truman: 'If you want loyalty, get a dog.' Warren was blunt in his assessment, claiming Benn has been 'protected' and never fought a contender or for a world title.
Blockbuster Fight Card and Historic Broadcast
Benn's first outing under the Zuffa Boxing banner is set to be a spectacular affair. He will face US light welterweight Regis Prograis on Saturday, April 11, at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in north London. This venue holds personal significance for Benn, as it was where he avenged an earlier loss to Chris Eubank Jr last year. The event will share top billing with the highly anticipated return of Tyson Fury, who is coming out of retirement, and Arslan Makhmudov, making it a stacked card for fight fans.
Adding to the spectacle, the evening will mark a historic milestone for streaming giant Netflix. This will be Netflix's first-ever live broadcast, expanding its sports programming after previously airing events like Anthony Joshua's meeting with Jake Paul in December from the United States. The move signals Netflix's growing investment in live sports content, potentially reshaping how boxing events are consumed globally.
Prograis's Recent Form and Benn's Career Crossroads
Regis Prograis, a former world champion, enters this bout seeking redemption after a unanimous decision loss to Jack Catterall at the Co-op Live in October 2024. The Louisiana native will be eager to reclaim his standing on British soil against Benn, who is at a pivotal juncture in his career. Despite Warren's criticisms, Benn's deal with Zuffa Boxing represents a major financial windfall and opportunity to prove his mettle on a global stage.
As the boxing world watches closely, this event promises not only high-stakes action in the ring but also underscores the evolving dynamics of promoter relationships and media distribution. With Benn's loyalty questioned and Hearn's support withdrawn, the April 11 fight could define Benn's legacy and Zuffa Boxing's emergence as a formidable player in the sport.
