Eddie Hearn Accepts Dana White's Boxing Challenge, Vows to 'Spark Out' UFC Chief
Boxing promoter Eddie Hearn has issued a fiery response to UFC president Dana White's sensational challenge for a boxing match, declaring he would 'spark out' the American promoter in the ring. The 46-year-old Hearn believes streaming giants like Netflix or DAZN would pay a fortune to broadcast the bout, potentially making it a lucrative spectacle.
Feud Escalates Over Conor Benn's Defection
The rivalry between the two businessmen has intensified in recent weeks following the high-profile defection of boxer Conor Benn from Hearn's Matchroom to White's Zuffa Boxing. Benn, who spent a decade with Matchroom, is reportedly set to earn a staggering £11 million plus from the move, adding fuel to the already heated dispute.
White, 56, initially threw down the gauntlet during an appearance on Piers Morgan Uncensored, stating, 'Listen, if Eddie wants to box, we can box. We can box if Eddie wants to box. I don’t think Eddie wants to box.' He expressed confidence in his abilities, recalling past sparring sessions with boxers and UFC fighters.
Hearn's Confident Retort and Financial Prospects
In a candid interview with iFL TV, Hearn did not hesitate to accept the challenge. 'He’s genuinely called the fight on,' Hearn said, comparing it to hypothetical bouts with other promoters like Frank Warren or Ben Shalom. 'Of course, I’d do it because how could you say no? Then you’d be a p****, wouldn’t you?'
Hearn highlighted the financial incentives, noting, 'By the way, Netflix would pay an absolute fortune, or live on DAZN – the global home of boxing. So I’d probably make a fortune to do it.' Despite acknowledging the risk of getting 'chinned,' he remained bullish about his chances, asserting, 'But I’d probably spark him out, to be fair.'
Tom Aspinall's Signing Adds to the Tension
Further escalating the conflict, Hearn recently signed UFC heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall to Matchroom's Talent Agency, a move seen as a direct blow to White. Hearn claimed this reflects broader discontent within UFC, with fighters allegedly unhappy about their pay compared to stars like Conor Benn.
However, Aspinall distanced himself from the feud, stating, 'I don’t want to be in a d***-measuring competition with two grown men.' He emphasized his decision was based on securing his worth and working with supportive people, not on point-scoring between Hearn and White.
The ongoing clash between Hearn and White continues to captivate the combat sports world, blending personal animosity with high-stakes business manoeuvres. As both sides trade verbal jabs, the possibility of a physical showdown looms, promising drama and potentially massive viewership if it materialises.
