Anthony Joshua has publicly backed his promoter Eddie Hearn in the ongoing feud with Conor Benn. The heavyweight champion took to social media to post a photo of himself with Hearn at Wimbledon, captioning it with a mock conversation: 'AJ: Did you bring the fire power Eddie? Eddie: It's tucked on my waste line mush. I'll let you know when I have a clear sight of Connor Benn.'
Benn split from Hearn's Matchroom Boxing last month to join Zuffa Boxing, a venture led by UFC CEO Dana White. The move will see Benn earn $15 million for a fight against Regis Prograis on the undercard of Tyson Fury's comeback bout on April 11. Hearn has expressed anger over the manner of Benn's departure, claiming the fighter refused his request for a discussion.
Hearn detailed his frustration in an interview with iFL TV, stating that he texted Benn days after the split to request a call, but Benn declined, saying he had heard Hearn was 'quite emotional' and suggested they talk later. Hearn said: 'I'm like, f*** me. ... This is not about that. This is just the way that you act to someone that has done so much for you and has basically saved your career.'
Joshua, who is signed to a career-long contract with Hearn, is currently recovering from a car crash in Nigeria after Christmas but could return to the ring this summer. The backing from his star client adds weight to Hearn's side of the dispute.
