‘Pretty devastated’: Eddie Hearn reacts to Conor Benn signing with Zuffa Boxing

Conor Benn has announced he has signed with Zuffa Boxing, with reports suggesting it could be a one-fight deal. Following that news, Eddie Hearn has given his reaction in an interview with Kugan Cassius at IFLTV.

Conor Benn departs Matchroom Boxing for Zuffa

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.”

Eddie Hearn reacts to Conor Benn departure

When asked about Benn signing with Zuffa Boxing, Hearn said:

“I’ve known about this for a few days now, what was unfolding. I actually received an email from Conor Benn’s lawyer to make me aware of it. I’m not going to sit here and hang Conor Benn out to dry. But, I got to be honest with you, me personally, pretty devastated.

“It’s not often you get shocked, but I blame myself because I forgot it was boxing. I just felt that the loyalty that we’ve shown would never ever put us in this position. I just felt that I never really needed to push Conor Benn to sign a new contract, previously, and I probably could have got him to sign a new contract previously. Like I said, I blame myself; I made a mistake because I misjudged the character,” added Hearn.

“And again, I’m not gonna hang him out to dry. He will say, ‘Well, it was a big offer,’ but you know, when I received the email from his lawyer, I texted him and said I think we should have a call. I think for everything I’ve done for you, I deserve a call, and he said no,” revealed a still clearly shocked Hearn.