Conor Benn reacts to Matchroom Boxing departure and teases Ryan Garcia fight

On February 21, at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Ryan Garcia defeated Mario Barrios by unanimous decision to become the WBC welterweight world champion, with scorecards of 120-107, 119-108, and 118-109. After the fight, Conor Benn spoke to iFL TV, reflecting on Garcia’s win and his own departure from Matchroom Boxing for Zuffa.

Conor Benn announces Matchroom Boxing departure

Announcing his departure from Matchroom and signing with Zuffa Boxing, Conor Benn released the following statement:

“First and foremost, I want to thank Eddie and the entire team at Matchroom for everything they’ve done for me over the past decade. 

From guiding me when I first turned pro, to headlining stadium shows. They were not only with me for those highlight moments but stood shoulder to shoulder with me during the tough times.

It’s been a journey beyond anything we could have imagined, and for their belief, support, and guidance, I will always be truly grateful, but Zuffa Boxing presented me with an opportunity I simply couldn’t refuse. I’d love Eddie to continue to be part of my team and for our partnership to evolve in this new chapter.

I’m filled with excitement and hunger for what’s ahead with Zuffa Boxing. I want the legacy fights, the biggest nights, the biggest stages. I fear no man at any weight, and I’m ready to give the fans the fights they’ve been calling for. I’m in my prime, and together we have bold, ambitious plans.”

Conor Benn reflects on Matchroom departure and Garcia’s win

Speaking to IFLTV, Benn discussed Ryan Garcia’s dominant unanimous decision win over Barrios: “Yeah, I mean, I thought it was great. I thought Barrios was there for the taking. He was losing every round. Garcia had a great performance. Better than he looked against Rolly. He looked phenomenal,” said Benn.

Conor Benn was then asked about his departure from Matchroom: “My career is based on Matchroom. They are the foundation of what I am today. I’ve got nothing but love for Eddie, and I’ve said I want him as part of my team in my corner, still with me, because the journey’s not over.”

When asked to clarify that he still wants Eddie Hearn as part of his team, a clearly animated Benn said: “Of course, he’s my friend, he’s my guy. Ultimately, he should be happy for me that I’m in this position that I’m in. I want him to be part of it. I messaged him directly saying: ‘Eddie, I want you to be part of the team, man. I want you to be here.’ The journey’s not done. I owe everything to them.”