Conor Benn Stuns Boxing with Defection to Dana White's Zuffa Boxing
In a seismic shift that has sent shockwaves through the boxing world, British star Conor Benn has abruptly ended his long-standing partnership with Eddie Hearn's Matchroom promotional company to join rival outfit Zuffa Boxing, which is headed by UFC president Dana White.
A Sudden Announcement That Caught Everyone Off Guard
The news emerged unexpectedly on Friday evening, marking a dramatic turn in Benn's career trajectory. The 29-year-old becomes the second high-profile signing for Zuffa Boxing, following cruiserweight champion Jai Opetaia, but Benn's profile and notoriety significantly surpass that of his new stablemate.
Benn has captivated and frustrated boxing fans in equal measure in recent years, particularly during the protracted drug-test saga that kept him out of British rings for three years from April 2022 until April 2025. Throughout this challenging period, Matchroom stood firmly by his side, supporting him as he navigated the controversy.
The Turbulent Backstory That Preceded This Move
The welterweight contender failed two drug tests in 2022, which derailed a highly anticipated domestic clash with rival Chris Eubank Jr. The episode dragged on until late 2024 when Benn finally returned to competition on home soil. His comeback culminated in two epic battles against Eubank Jr last year.
In April 2025, Benn suffered his first professional defeat against Eubank Jr, then rebounded to win their November rematch, with both contests going the distance despite Benn naturally competing at welterweight while facing a middleweight opponent.
Timing Adds Intrigue to the Departure
The timing of Benn's departure adds another layer of intrigue, coming just days after White launched a scathing verbal attack on Hearn. Despite the move, Benn has expressed a desire to maintain some connection with his former promoter, stating he would "love to continue to be part of my team."
In an official statement, Benn, son of British boxing legend Nigel Benn, expressed gratitude toward his former promotional home: "First and foremost, I want to thank Eddie and the entire team at Matchroom for everything they've done for me over the past decade."
"From guiding me when I first turned professional to headlining stadium shows, they were not only with me for those highlight moments but stood shoulder to shoulder with me during the tough times," Benn continued. "It's been a journey beyond anything we could have imagined, and for their belief, support and guidance, I will always be truly grateful."
The Irresistible Opportunity That Prompted the Switch
Benn explained his decision by emphasizing the unique opportunity presented by Zuffa Boxing: "Zuffa Boxing presented me with an opportunity I simply couldn't refuse. I'd love Eddie to continue to be part of my team and for our partnership to evolve in this new chapter."
The British fighter conveyed palpable excitement about his future prospects: "I'm filled with excitement and hunger for what's ahead with Zuffa Boxing. I want the legacy fights, the biggest nights, the biggest stages. I fear no man at any weight, and I'm ready to give the fans the fights they've been calling for. I'm in my prime, and together we have bold, ambitious plans."
This stunning development represents a significant coup for Dana White's burgeoning boxing venture while marking the end of an era for Benn's relationship with Matchroom, which had been instrumental in building his career from his professional debut through both triumphs and tribulations.
