Barry Hearn criticized the lack of etiquette in Conor Benn’s departure from Matchroom to Zuffa Boxing without even engaging in a conversation with Eddie Hearn. Benn, 29, confirmed the split on Friday and will now be under the management of the Saudi-backed promoter led by UFC president Dana White.
Benn chose to part ways with the promoters who had supported him for a decade, even standing by him during a previous drug test failure. Despite Eddie Hearn’s admiration for Benn following his victory over Chris Eubank Jr. last year, Benn decided to pursue the opportunity presented by Zuffa, stating it was irresistible. However, when Eddie Hearn attempted to discuss their future collaboration, Benn showed no interest in taking his call, leading to Barry Hearn’s disappointment.
Barry expressed his disappointment, stating that the decision goes beyond financial aspects and questioned Benn’s loyalty to the team that had nurtured him. Benn’s move makes him the second prominent signing for Zuffa after cruiserweight champion Jai Opetaia. Barry Hearn mentioned that when Eddie suggested a meeting to discuss the situation, Benn preferred to involve lawyers, which Barry found appalling after their long history together.
Benn, the mandatory challenger for the WBC welterweight title, defended his choice by stating it would have been unwise to reject the lucrative offer. Barry Hearn emphasized that he would have accepted Benn’s decision had it been handled differently. He highlighted the importance of mutual standards, which he feels were not upheld in this situation.