Dana White snaps up British star from rival for

Conor Benn has announced his departure from Eddie Hearn as he makes a stunning transfer from Matchroom to Zuffa Boxing.

The announcement got here as a major shock with Benn changing into the second high-profile signing to hitch Zuffa, which is led by UFC president Dana White, following cruiserweight champion Jai Opetaia.

The 29-year-old has praised Hearn’s affect, who called Benn “a true role model and an inspiration” after his victory over Eubank Jr. However, Benn said the Zuffa supply was too good to show down, however left the door open for Hearn to stay with him.

He said in an announcement: “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. From guiding me when I first turned pro, to headlining stadium shows. They were not only with me for those highlight moments but stood shoulder to shoulder with me during the tough times.”

“It’s been a journey beyond anything we could have imagined, and for their belief, support, and guidance, I will always be truly grateful, but Zuffa Boxing presented me with an opportunity I simply couldn’t refuse. I’d love Eddie to continue to be part of my team and for our partnership to evolve in this new chapter.

“I’m full of pleasure and starvation for what’s ahead with Zuffa Boxing. I need the legacy fights, the greatest nights, the greatest phases. I concern no man at any weight, and I’m prepared to present the followers the fights they have been calling for. I’m in my prime, and together now we have daring, bold plans”.

Zuffa Boxing is being spearheaded by White alongside Saudi government official Turki Alalshikh, who has played a crucial role in the Gulf nation’s recent boxing expansion. The UFC boss has dismissed Hearn’s impact and is confident he can bring fresh energy to the sport.

He remarked: “I do not assume anyone seems to be at Eddie Hearn and says: ‘Oh, this man’s a visionary.’ The man’s been in boxing eternally, I have a look at him like most politicians. You’ve accomplished nothing in this sport besides keep in the lane and play by all the guidelines and trip proper together with what’s been… You ended up changing into a part of the drawback, is what’s occurred.

“And I don’t wanna sit here and smash Eddie Hearn or anything, but Eddie Hearn works for his dad, you know what I mean? He works for dad. I don’t think he’s come in and had any type of vision, whereas we do, and we’re gonna change the entire sport.”