Barry Hearn takes aim at Conor Benn over ‘outrageous’ Matchroom exit

23 Feb 2026 • 7:47 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

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  • Boxer Conor Benn has departed Matchroom Sport after a decade, prompting a scathing attack from its founder, Barry Hearn.
  • Hearn labelled Benn's exit as “outrageous” and the “bitterest” he has witnessed in his 50-year career, expressing profound disappointment.
  • The Matchroom president stated that Benn communicated his decision solely through legal representatives, despite a close, “family-like” relationship with the promoter.
  • Eddie Hearn, Matchroom chairman, previously described Benn's move as a “dagger in the heart”, a sentiment echoed by his father.
  • Benn has joined Dana White’s Saudi-backed Zuffa company, following a recent high-profile victory against Chris Eubank Jr.

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