Boxing promoter Eddie Hearn has claimed that Conor Benn turned down three world-title fight opportunities against different opponents before his departure from Matchroom earlier this year. Benn unexpectedly left Hearn's promotional company in February to sign with rivals Zuffa Boxing, despite Hearn's previous support during a two-year period following Benn's failed drug tests in 2022.
Rejected Opponents
Hearn specified the rejected opponents to various outlets, including Boxing News, as Lewis Crocker for the IBF welterweight title, Rolly Romero for the WBA title, and Josh Kelly for the IBF super-welterweight title. Hearn suggested that Benn's refusal stemmed from a desire to avoid being “beat for small money” when he could potentially secure more lucrative fights, implying Benn knows his own limitations.
Benn's Recent Moves
Since joining Zuffa, Benn has fought once, outpointing Regis Prograis in a catchweight bout in April, and is expected to return to welterweight later this year, having previously traded middleweight wins with Chris Eubank Jr in 2025.
