Conor Benn has stunned the boxing world by announcing he has signed with Zuffa Boxing and Dana White, bringing an end to his decade-long relationship with Eddie Hearn and Matchroom Boxing.
Benn turned professional in 2016 under Matchroom and rose to become one of Britain’s biggest names. In 2025, he headlined two high-profile clashes with Chris Eubank Jr., losing the first by unanimous decision before avenging the defeat in November with a dominant points win that included two knockdowns. Those fights capped a turbulent period that began in October 2022, when Benn’s scheduled bout with Eubank was canceled following a failed drugs test.
Matchroom stood by Benn throughout that saga, and future plans had reportedly been in motion following his revenge victory. However, Benn has now opted for a new direction. In a statement on social media, he thanked Hearn and Matchroom for their support but admitted the Zuffa offer was too significant to ignore.
“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,” Benn said. “They were not only with me for those highlight moments but stood shoulder to shoulder with me during the tough times… but Zuffa Boxing presented me with an opportunity I simply couldn’t refuse.”
Benn added that he hopes Hearn can remain involved in some capacity as his career enters a new phase. “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.”
The move positions Zuffa to potentially pursue bouts Benn has targeted, including the winner of the upcoming WBC title fight between Mario Barrios and Ryan Garcia, as well as newly crowned WBO champion Shakur Stevenson.
Image Credit: Zuffa