Hearn Warns Benn After Zuffa Move and White Fallout

Hearn Fires Warning as Benn Joins Zuffa Boxing

Eddie Hearn says he is ready for a long-term battle with Dana White after Conor Benn’s shock switch from Matchroom to Zuffa Boxing.

Benn’s departure has sent shockwaves through British boxing, particularly given Matchroom’s unwavering support during his two-year doping saga.

Speaking to BBC 5 Live, Hearn admitted the split was painful but insisted he is prepared for a new era of rivalry.

“It’s going to be a long, hard battle. But I’m well up for it,” Hearn said.

“I think it’s a blessing to be in those kinds of battles.”

Benn’s Shock Exit

Benn had been aligned with Matchroom for his entire professional career. However, Hearn confirmed the 29-year-old was not locked into a long-term contract.

The deal with Zuffa Boxing is reportedly a single-fight agreement but believed to be worth eight figures — a significant statement from the new promotion led by White.

The move signals White’s growing ambition to reshape boxing under the Zuffa banner, following years of dominance in the UFC.

Hearn Accuses White of Being ‘Ruthless’

Tom Aspinall’s career has been derailed by serious eye injuries he sustained in a UFC fight last October

Hearn did not hold back when discussing White’s approach, warning that Benn has entered a different corporate environment.

The Matchroom boss referenced how White handled UFC heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall in a previous dispute.

“You’re a pawn in the game if you’re Conor Benn,” Hearn said.

“These guys are very, very powerful, ruthless people.”

Hearn suggested loyalty was expected after standing by Benn during his suspension — a period that ultimately boosted the fighter’s global profile.

Boxing Power Struggle Begins

White has publicly declared his intention to “take over boxing”, setting up what could become one of the sport’s most influential promotional rivalries.

The clash between Matchroom and Zuffa Boxing now appears inevitable, with Benn positioned at the centre of the storm.

For Hearn, the gloves are officially off — outside the ring.

Key Talking Points

• Benn signs reported eight-figure deal with Zuffa Boxing

• Hearn accuses Dana White of ruthless business tactics

• Matchroom relationship ends after doping controversy support

• New promotional rivalry brewing in global boxing