Conor Benn shocks British boxing by splitting from Eddie Hearn and signing a multi-million-pound deal with Dana White’s Zuffa Boxing in London

Conor Benn has pulled off one of the most unexpected moves in British boxing this year.

After a decade-long partnership with Eddie Hearn and Matchroom Boxing, the 29-year-old welterweight star has signed a high-profile deal with Zuffa Boxing, the new venture led by UFC boss Dana White.

The news dropped like a bombshell on Friday, instantly sparking chatter across boxing circles about what this means for Benn’s career and the wider sport.

Benn described the move as a “new chapter,” expressing excitement and hunger for the challenges ahead.

“I want the legacy fights, the biggest nights, the biggest stages,” he said, signaling ambitions that go far beyond national headlines.

Dana White matched the enthusiasm, calling Benn “an absolute beast and a superstar,” cementing the idea that Zuffa sees him as a cornerstone for its fledgling boxing operations.

A Decade With Matchroom Comes to an End

The switch is particularly striking considering Benn’s long-standing loyalty to Eddie Hearn, who guided his professional journey from his 2016 debut to becoming a headline attraction.

Despite the split, Benn was keen to acknowledge the support he received over the years, including during his more controversial moments.

His statements suggested a nuanced departure: while he’s moving on commercially, he hopes to maintain a degree of goodwill with Matchroom.

Indeed, Benn’s career hasn’t been without turbulence.

After failing two drug tests in 2022, he spent almost three years away from British rings, derailing a highly anticipated showdown with rival Chris Eubank Jr and stirring debate across the sport.

Matchroom’s continued backing during that period did not go unnoticed, reflecting a loyalty that few fighters enjoy.

Comeback Battles and Career Highs

Benn returned to the UK in late 2024, marking his comeback with two grudge bouts against Eubank Jr at middleweight, a weight class above his natural division.

The first fight ended in Benn’s first professional loss, while the rematch saw him edge victory.

Both bouts went the distance and showcased Benn’s ability to thrill fans with explosive action, while sometimes frustrating them with close outcomes.

These contests further solidified his reputation as a fighter who can dominate headlines both in victory and defeat.

Against this backdrop, the move to Zuffa appears driven by both financial incentives and strategic career planning.

Reports suggest the deal is a one-fight contract worth eight figures, offering Benn not just significant earnings but also the flexibility to remain selective about future opportunities.

Ambitions for World Titles and Legacy Fights

Benn has long spoken about winning the WBC title, a belt loaded with personal significance due to his father Nigel Benn’s legendary reign.

Whether his new promotional arrangement aligns with that ambition remains a talking point among analysts.

Zuffa’s emergence offers a different path, potentially putting him on bigger global stages with marquee matchups that could accelerate his quest for legacy-defining fights.

The deal also positions Benn as a central figure in Zuffa’s early plans to attract star names and stage blockbuster events, particularly in London.

His outspoken pursuit of American talent Ryan Garcia has already created excitement, with fans imagining a transatlantic showdown that could sell out stadiums if contracts align.

The Ryan Garcia Factor

Garcia’s situation adds a layer of intrigue.

Conflicting reports involving Golden Boy Promotions and founder Oscar De La Hoya have muddied the waters about Garcia’s next fight.

While Garcia claims his deal is ending imminently, De La Hoya insists he still has commitments under the existing agreement.

This uncertainty feeds speculation that a Benn-Garcia fight could become one of Zuffa Boxing’s first headline-grabbing matches—potentially a fight fans have been craving for years.

Benn is expected to attend Garcia’s next bout against Mario Barrios, adding fuel to the rumor mill and suggesting the two fighters could generate promotional sparks well before any actual fight is confirmed.

What’s Next for Benn and Zuffa Boxing?

For Benn, the immediate horizon involves debuting under the Zuffa banner and leveraging the deal to secure high-profile contests.

With multiple London events reportedly in the pipeline for 2026, the stage is set for potentially stadium-filling showdowns.

His comments suggest he’s ready to face opponents at any weight, emphasizing ambition and fearlessness.

Dana White also sees Benn as a catalyst for Zuffa’s boxing ambitions.

“Conor Benn is an absolute beast and a superstar,” White said.

“He shows up every time and destroys people. He’s ready for a world title next, and I can’t wait to see him compete.”

For White, Benn isn’t just another fighter—he’s a linchpin in building the promotion’s credibility and drawing attention from international fans.

Summary and Outlook

Conor Benn’s move marks a dramatic shift in British boxing, breaking a decade-long bond with Matchroom and opening the door to bold international opportunities.

With Zuffa Boxing aiming for major London events and marquee matchups like a potential clash with Ryan Garcia, Benn is positioning himself for both financial reward and legacy-defining moments.

The question now isn’t just who he’ll fight next—it’s how far this new chapter can take him on the global stage.

Fans will be watching Benn’s Zuffa debut closely, speculating about possible world title shots and transatlantic showdowns, while the boxing world braces for what could be one of the most thrilling periods in recent history.