Eddie Hearn 'Devastated' by Conor Benn's Sudden Departure via Email
Prominent boxing promoter Eddie Hearn has been left reeling with shock and profound anger after Conor Benn abruptly terminated their ten-year promotional partnership through a simple email. The boxing world was sent into a state of stunned disbelief late on Friday evening when Benn publicly announced his decision to jump ship to Zuffa, the emerging boxing promotion company established by UFC founder Dana White. This move marks a dramatic departure for Benn, who has spent his entire professional career under Hearn's Matchroom Boxing stable.
A Decade of Support Ends Abruptly
In interviews conducted on Saturday, Hearn revealed he was 'devastated' by this unexpected development. He emphasized his unwavering support for Benn throughout the arduous two-year doping controversy, which erupted after Daily Mail Sport exposed Benn's positive test for the banned fertility drug clomiphene. Hearn disclosed that he had financially supported Benn earlier in his career, stating he had 'loaned him hundreds of thousands of pounds' at a critical juncture 'when he was done'.
A confidential source speaking to the Mail on Sunday specified the loan figure was approximately £500,000, traced back to 2022. This financial assistance coincided with the last-minute cancellation of Benn's initial scheduled fight against Chris Eubank Jr., following the revelation of his failed drugs test. It is understood Hearn provided Benn with an advance on his fight purse, which was repaid without interest two years later.
Legal Battles and Public Defence
Hearn consistently defended Benn publicly during a prolonged legal battle, which only concluded in November 2024. The National Anti-Doping Panel ultimately ruled it was 'not comfortably satisfied' that UK Anti-Doping had proven Benn committed a doping offence. Following this resolution, Hearn successfully guided Benn to two highly lucrative fights with Eubank Jr., earning the fighter in excess of £10 million.
Despite this history, Hearn learned of Benn's departure through an email sent by Benn's lawyer, Lee Emptage. The pair have not communicated directly since. Hearn expressed his deep disappointment, stating, 'It is very disappointing considering everything I have done for him. Maybe I misjudged his character.' Speaking to iFL TV, he added, 'I just think the way it was done was very very wrong... you just lose a bit of your soul to it.'
Benn's New Chapter with Zuffa Boxing
In his social media statements, Benn thanked Hearn and Matchroom 'for everything they've done' and expressed hope for future collaboration. However, he asserted that Zuffa 'presented me with an opportunity I simply couldn't refuse'. Benn declared, 'I'm filled with excitement and hunger for what's ahead... I want the legacy fights, the biggest nights, the biggest stages.'
Benn's move to Zuffa is reported to be a lucrative one-fight agreement worth an eight-figure sum, after which he will become a free agent again. This strategic switch positions Benn at the forefront of Zuffa's ambitious plans to attract elite fighters and host major events. Speculation is intensifying around a potential high-profile matchup with American star Ryan Garcia, whom Benn has long pursued.
Potential Showdown with Ryan Garcia
The contractual status of Ryan Garcia remains unclear amid conflicting claims between Golden Boy Promotions and its founder, Oscar De La Hoya. Garcia has indicated his contract expires soon, while De La Hoya insists multiple fights remain. This uncertainty, combined with Benn's new Zuffa deal, fuels widespread speculation that a Benn-Garcia showdown could materialize as one of Zuffa's inaugural marquee events.
Zuffa is reportedly planning multiple London events throughout 2026, raising the tantalizing prospect of Benn and Garcia headlining a blockbuster stadium show. Benn is expected to be ringside for Garcia's upcoming fight against Mario Barrios, potentially setting the stage for a promotional face-off that could further ignite anticipation for a transatlantic clash.
Dana White hailed Benn's signing as a 'huge addition', stating, 'Conor Benn is an absolute beast and a superstar... He's ready for a world title next and I can't wait to see him compete in Zuffa Boxing.' This move signals a significant shift in the boxing landscape, with Hearn left to reflect on a shattered partnership while Benn embarks on a bold new promotional path.
