Barry Hearn criticized Conor Benn for his departure from Matchroom Boxing to join Zuffa Boxing without even speaking to Eddie Hearn. The 29-year-old confirmed the split and will now be managed by the Saudi-backed promoter led by UFC president Dana White.
Benn chose to leave the promoters who supported him for a decade and even stood by him during a previous drug test failure. Despite Eddie Hearn’s praise for Benn after his victory over Chris Eubank Jnr, Benn decided to pursue the opportunity presented by Zuffa.
Eddie Hearn attempted to discuss their working relationship with Benn but was ignored, which disappointed Hearn. Benn’s decision to accept Dana White’s offer without considering the team that supported him was described as “classless” by Barry Hearn.
Benn’s move to Zuffa makes him the second significant signing after cruiserweight champion Jai Opetaia. Barry Hearn expressed his dismay at the situation, stating that in his many years of promoting, this was the most unpleasant experience he had encountered.
Benn, the WBC welterweight title mandatory challenger, defended his decision by stating that rejecting the lucrative offer would have been unreasonable. While Hearn Sr. acknowledged Benn’s right to choose a different path, he emphasized the importance of maintaining high standards in professional conduct.
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