Barry Hearn Condemns Conor Benn's 'Classless' Departure from Matchroom
Barry Hearn has launched a scathing attack on Conor Benn, branding the boxer's exit from Matchroom Boxing as "classless" and deeply disappointing. The 29-year-old welterweight shocked the boxing world by abruptly leaving the promotion after ten years to join the Saudi-backed Zuffa Boxing, headed by UFC president Dana White.
Sudden Split Leaves Hearn Family Fuming
Benn confirmed his departure on Friday night, opting for what he described as "an opportunity I simply couldn't refuse" with the new promotional outfit. However, what has particularly angered the Hearn family is Benn's refusal to even entertain a final discussion with Eddie Hearn, who had stood by the fighter through previous controversies including a failed drugs test.
"I didn't think he was that type of boy," Barry Hearn lamented. "Maybe we got it wrong with Conor. We took his side, and we believed everything he said, and maybe we were wrong. I hope not. It is personally disappointing because it goes beyond money."
A Decade-Long Partnership Abruptly Ended
The split marks the end of a significant relationship that saw Matchroom guide Benn through his professional career, including his notable victory over Chris Eubank Jnr last year. Hearn emphasised the loyalty shown to Benn during challenging periods, stating that team members "would have taken a bullet from him at ringside."
"When Eddie suggested to him by text that they meet to discuss it, Conor suggested it's best to go through lawyers," Barry Hearn revealed. "And after 10 years of what we've gone through with him, I think in my 50-odd years of promoting sport, this is the most horrible, outrageous [thing]."
Lucrative Zuffa Deal Proves Irresistible
Benn, now the mandatory challenger for the WBC welterweight title, defended his decision by suggesting he would have been "mentally ill" to turn down the substantial financial package offered by Zuffa Boxing. The promotion, backed by Turki Alalshikh's investment, has been aggressively recruiting talent, with Benn becoming their second major signing following cruiserweight champion Jai Opetaia.
Barry Hearn acknowledged the financial appeal, noting: "Dana has got Turki Alalshikh's money behind him, and he needs to sign fighters, and he needs to pay them really well, which he is doing. But that doesn't mean you have to disband a team that built you."
Relationship Breakdown Beyond Repair
The veteran promoter insisted he wouldn't have objected to Benn pursuing new opportunities if handled differently. "We have very high standards, but those standards have not been reciprocated," Hearn stated, emphasising the breakdown in communication that has left the once-strong partnership in tatters.
This dramatic exit comes at a pivotal moment in Benn's career, as he positions himself for a world title shot while navigating the complex landscape of boxing promotions and allegiances.
