British welterweight Conor Benn has robustly defended his substantial £11.19 million, single-fight agreement with Zuffa Boxing, vowing to deliver exceptional value for money as he steps into the ring this Saturday. The high-profile bout against Regis Prograis will serve as the undercard to Tyson Fury's headline clash with Arslanbek Makhmudov at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, marking Benn's first appearance since his points victory over Chris Eubank Jr in November.
Career-Defining Move to Zuffa Boxing
The 29-year-old fighter, previously promoted throughout his professional career by Eddie Hearn's Matchroom Boxing, made a sensational switch to Zuffa Boxing in February. This strategic move came as a surprise to many within the boxing community. Zuffa Boxing represents a collaborative venture between UFC chief executive Dana White and influential Saudi Arabian powerbroker Turki Alalshikh, aiming to make significant waves in the sport.
Benn's Perspective on the Viral Signing
"Zuffa wanted to make noise – and that’s exactly what they’ve done," Benn declared in the lead-up to his 150lbs catchweight contest with Prograis. "I don’t see much bigger announcements that have gone so viral off an announcement of a signing, not even a fight. They’ve done exactly what they needed to do and it’s a privilege that I’m that guy."
Despite the contract concluding after this weekend's event, Benn indicated that Zuffa remains in a favourable position for any future negotiations. "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," he elaborated. "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."
Strained Relationship with Former Promoter
Benn's departure from Matchroom Boxing blindsided Hearn, who described being informed via email as a "dagger in the heart" and claimed he "literally died on a hill for him." Hearn had staunchly supported Benn through a challenging period following a failed drugs test in 2022, which eventually saw his ban lifted. He also promoted both high-stakes fights against Chris Eubank Jr and alleged that he provided Benn with a substantial loan of £550,000.
Financial Motivations and Future Ambitions
Benn, however, firmly denied receiving any such loan, asserting that the financial incentives presented by Zuffa Boxing were simply too significant to refuse. He expressed a desire to reconcile with Hearn, even suggesting an invitation for his former promoter to visit his changing room on Saturday. "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," Benn explained.
"What I do know, what I can say, is my kids are set up for life. What I can say is this changes my kids’ kids’ lives. What I can say is this an opportunity I couldn’t turn down, irrelevant of all the noise, irrelevant of everything. And hopefully we can sit down and I hope he does knock on my (changing room) door. You know, I love Eddie."
Looking Beyond the Netflix Debut
Benn has hinted that his partnership with Zuffa Boxing could extend well beyond his upcoming Netflix debut this weekend. His sights are firmly set on securing a world title shot against WBC welterweight champion Ryan Garcia, potentially as soon as September. This ambition underscores the pivotal nature of Saturday's bout, which could define the next chapter of his professional trajectory.
