Conor Benn has labeled Matchroom’s reaction to his move to Zuffa Boxing as “short-sighted,” as tensions continue to rise following his decision to leave the promoter that guided his entire professional career. The 29-year-old returns to action against Regis Prograis this weekend, marking both his first fight at welterweight in four years and his only confirmed bout under the Zuffa banner.
Having built his profile under Eddie Hearn and Matchroom, Benn acknowledged the history but made it clear that his latest move was driven by opportunity. “I’d be mentally ill if I didn’t take this opportunity, considering the offers weren’t even close,” he said, emphasizing the scale of the deal. While Hearn and other Matchroom figures criticized how the split unfolded, Benn insisted he holds no ill feeling, adding that their reaction was “a bit short-sighted.”
The fallout has not been limited to professional disagreements. Benn admitted disappointment on a personal level, suggesting the response lacked support. “I’m a bit disappointed on a friendship level… I’m upset that they’re not happy for me, because I made them a lot of money,” he said, contrasting that with the reaction from his inner circle, who he says are “so proud of the door that’s opened.”
At the core of Benn’s decision is a clear focus on long-term security. Referencing his children, he explained: “My loyalty’s to my kids before anybody… when my career’s said and done, are you gonna pay my bills?” He framed the move as a necessary step, pointing out that fighters have limited time compared to promoters who operate long-term businesses. “The fighter ultimately has one career. They don’t have multiple,” he added.
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