British welterweight Conor “The Destroyer” Benn has ended his 10-year partnership with Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing to sign with Dana White’s Zuffa Boxing.
The 29-year-old has declared that he wants a shot at “legacy fights” on the sport’s biggest stages, citing that as the main reason for signing with UFC boss White’s rival promotion company.
Boxing sources have suggested the deal with Zuffa Boxing is a one-fight, eight-figure agreement with Benn having to step into the ring before 31 May to uphold his side of the contract.
The end of a decade-long partnership
The announcement came via Instagram and ended a 10‑year partnership with Matchroom, which began in 2016 when Benn made his professional debut.
Hearn spoke emotionally about Benn’s move to Zuffa Boxing, and questioned the fighter’s loyalty – revealing that he had loaned Benn thousands of pounds during trickier times of his life.
Under Matchroom, Benn’s career saw high‑profile fights, including two stadium clashes with Chris Eubank Jr, and support through challenging moments such as a long suspension amid doping controversy.
Zuffa Boxing & Benn’s World Title Hopes
Benn has won 24 of his 25 professional bouts. He has already been confirmed as the mandatory challenger for the WBC belt, which is currently held by Mario Barrios, who’ll defend his title against Ryan Garcia in Las Vegas on February 21.
Announcing the shock signing, UFC President and CEO Dana White said, “Conor Benn is an absolute beast and a superstar.
“He shows up every time and destroys people, and now some of the best fighters in the world are calling him out. He’s ready for a world title next, and I can’t wait to see him compete in Zuffa Boxing.”
SEE ALSO: Official UFC Protein Bar Range Announced for Summer 2026
