A Power Shift Between Promoters
Conor Benn’s decision to sign with Zuffa Boxing may only be for one fight, but the ripple effects could stretch much further. In modern boxing, influence is not measured solely by titles or rankings — it is also about profile, marketability and leverage. Benn brings a huge following, proven ticket-selling ability and the status of WBC No. 1 contender at welterweight. With Ryan Garcia now holding the belt, Benn has already made it clear he wants his shot.
What makes the move even more explosive is the tension it could spark between Eddie Hearn and Dana White. After years of Hearn guiding Benn’s rise under Matchroom, White’s involvement feels personal. The timing — coming shortly after Hearn extended his deal with DAZN — only adds another layer. Some insiders believe the promotional tug-of-war may be short-lived. Others think it’s just beginning.
Saudi Influence and Broadcast Questions
There is also the wider political dimension. Turki Alalshikh has played a major role in reshaping boxing’s landscape and is widely linked to the financial muscle behind Zuffa Boxing. His close working relationship with Hearn has been evident, but a fighter shifting to a rival promotional structure changes the dynamics. It suggests a gradual turning of the page from the old guard to a new power structure.
Broadcast implications are equally intriguing. While some doubt Benn’s drawing power in the United States, the UK market tells a different story. Zuffa has reportedly held discussions with Sky Sports, and Benn remains a proven pay-per-view attraction at home. Fights against names like Shakur Stevenson or Ryan Garcia would likely fill a stadium in Britain. And if this truly is a one-fight agreement, few expect it to be a routine outing.
Loyalty, Trainers and What Comes Next
Another subplot surrounds Benn’s long-time trainer Tony Sims. Hearn has publicly stated he has no issue with Benn continuing to train at the Matchroom Gym in Essex, but the sudden shift has raised eyebrows. Both Benn and Sims had previously spoken about staying together for the duration of the fighter’s career, making this moment feel abrupt.
As for whether Benn and Hearn could reunite in the future, opinions are divided. Trainer Mark Tibbs and former world champion Josh Taylor are among those who believe the door is far from closed. Benn himself has said he hopes Hearn remains involved in some capacity. Still, pride, positioning and shifting alliances will all play their part.
For now, Benn’s move represents more than a single fight deal — it signals a potential reshaping of boxing’s promotional map.
