Conor Benn Confident Zuffa Boxing Will Reap Rewards from Mega £11.19 Million Deal
British welterweight Conor Benn has expressed unwavering confidence that Zuffa Boxing is securing significant value from their monumental one-fight agreement, valued at an astonishing £11.19 million. This lucrative deal, which concludes after Benn's upcoming bout against Regis Prograis this Saturday, marks a pivotal shift in the fighter's career trajectory.
A High-Stakes Debut Under New Promotion
The 29-year-old pugilist will make his first appearance under the Zuffa Boxing banner on the undercard of the Tyson Fury versus Arslanbek Makhmudov event at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. This follows his decisive points victory over Chris Eubank Jr in November, a fight that solidified his status in the boxing world. Benn's move to Zuffa Boxing in February came as a surprise to many, ending his long-standing partnership with promoter Eddie Hearn's Matchroom Boxing.
Zuffa Boxing, a collaborative venture between UFC chief executive Dana White and influential Saudi Arabian powerbroker Turki Alalshikh, has made a bold statement with this acquisition. Benn believes the promotion has already achieved its goal of generating substantial buzz, stating, "Zuffa wanted to make noise – and that’s exactly what they’ve done. I don’t see much bigger announcements that have gone so viral off an announcement of a signing, not even a fight."
Future Ambitions and Financial Security
Despite the deal's expiration post-fight, Benn hints that the collaboration with Zuffa Boxing may extend beyond this single event. He has his sights set on a potential world title shot against WBC welterweight champion Ryan Garcia in September, which could be facilitated through this partnership. "After Saturday I’ll be a completely free agent. Obviously Zuffa are in the driving seat because of the way they’ve looked after me so well," Benn remarked, acknowledging their supportive role.
The financial aspect of the deal is undeniably transformative for Benn. He emphasized that the opportunity was impossible to refuse, not only for the substantial sum but for the life-changing security it provides. "What I can say is my kids are set up for life. What I can say is this changes my kids’ kids’ lives. This an opportunity I couldn’t turn down, irrelevant of all the noise," he declared, highlighting the generational impact.
Strained Relations with Former Promoter
Eddie Hearn, who had promoted Benn throughout his entire professional career, was reportedly blindsided by the fighter's departure. Hearn described being informed via email as a "dagger in the heart" and claimed to have "literally died on a hill for him," referencing his support during Benn's suspension for a failed drugs test in 2022, which was later lifted. Hearn also asserted that he lent Benn £550,000, a claim Benn denies.
Benn addressed the strained relationship with a measured tone, stating, "It’s not all black and white, that’s all I can say on it. But ultimately, I have no feeling in my heart towards Eddie." He extended an olive branch, expressing hope that Hearn might visit his changing room on Saturday, adding, "You know, I love Eddie."
The Fight Details and Broader Implications
The bout against Regis Prograis will be contested at a 150lbs catchweight, adding an extra layer of intrigue to this high-profile matchup. Benn's debut on Netflix as part of this deal further amplifies its significance, potentially reshaping how boxing promotions leverage streaming platforms.
As fight night approaches, Benn remains focused on delivering a performance that validates Zuffa Boxing's investment. "I’m extremely blessed by this opportunity. Of course the amount is lovely, but also the opportunity and to be able to fight so soon," he concluded, underscoring the multifaceted benefits of this groundbreaking agreement in the sport of boxing.
