Eddie Hearn Reacts to Conor Benn Signing With Zuffa Boxing

Benn’s departure ends long-term promotional partnership

Eddie Hearn says he misjudged Conor Benn after learning the fighter signed with Zuffa Boxing. The Matchroom promoter revealed he was informed by email from Benn’s lawyer.

Speaking to IFL TV, Hearn did not challenge Benn’s choice or suggest there was a path to reverse it.

“When I received the email from Conor Benn’s lawyer, I texted him and said, ‘I think we should have a call. For everything I’ve done for you, I deserve a call,’” Hearn said. “And he said no. I can’t believe it.”

The exchange appeared to define Hearn’s reaction. His remarks reflected acknowledgment rather than dispute, with repeated references to surprise and personal responsibility instead of frustration directed outward.

“I blame myself,” Hearn said. “I misjudged the character. I just felt that the loyalty that we’ve shown would never ever put us in this position.”

Benn’s departure ends a partnership that spanned his entire professional career, during which Matchroom developed him into a headlining attraction in the UK. His fights against Chris Eubank Jr. at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium elevated his commercial standing and established him as one of Britain’s most visible active fighters.

Eddie Hearn said he was aware conversations were taking place, but did not expect the move to be finalised without a direct exchange. In boxing, when a fighter changes promotional corner after that length of service, it usually comes with a clear sit-down first.

“To receive an email from the lawyer and then to ask for a call and not get the willingness to have a call,” Hearn said, “it was very surprising and very painful.”

Benn is now expected to make his first appearance under the Zuffa Boxing banner, marking a clear separation from the promotional structure that had guided his career from its beginning.