Anthony Joshua was reportedly approached about leaving Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing, according to the British promoter.
The approach came shortly after Conor Benn shocked the sport by accepting a reported $15 million one-fight deal with Dana White’s Zuffa Boxing promotion. Benn’s move ended a decade-long relationship with Matchroom and intensified the rivalry between Hearn and White as the UFC president expands his presence in boxing. In the wake of the signing, Hearn revealed that Joshua had also been contacted about a potential move away from Matchroom.
Speaking to combat sports journalist Ariel Helwani, Hearn said Joshua immediately informed him about the approach. According to the promoter, the former heavyweight champion sent him a screenshot of the message within seconds and asked how he should respond.
Joshua and Hearn have worked together since the London Olympic gold medalist turned professional in 2013. Over that time, the pair built one of boxing’s most successful promotional relationships, with Joshua becoming a two-time unified heavyweight champion and headlining major stadium events.
White’s push into boxing through Zuffa Boxing has already created tension across the sport, particularly following Benn’s signing. Matchroom recently responded by launching its own talent agency, with UFC heavyweight Tom Aspinall becoming its first client while remaining under contract with the UFC.
Joshua remains a central figure in Matchroom’s stable and has previously signed a lifetime agreement with the company. The 36-year-old is expected to return to the ring later this year after his most recent fight saw him stop Jake Paul in Miami last December.
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