Eddie Hearn, the promoter of Matchroom Boxing, is facing scrutiny over his response to Conor Benn's recent transition to Zuffa Boxing, an endeavor led by Dana White. This move, which involves Benn signing a lucrative one-fight deal with the new promotion, represents a significant departure from Hearn’s established influence in Benn's career. UFC veteran Chael Sonnen criticized Hearn, suggesting that he misstepped in his public discourse with White regarding this development.

Benn’s signing comes after a heated buildup surrounding a potential rematch with Chris Eubank Jr, which Hearn had been strategically promoting. The abrupt shift to Zuffa has caught Hearn off guard, particularly given Benn's profile as one of his top fighters. In light of this transfer, Hearn's emotional reaction marked a clear indication of his surprise at losing a client that held substantial market value.

The implications of Benn's switch to Zuffa extend beyond personal aspects; they signal a broader shift in the boxing world where promotions like Zuffa are starting to challenge traditional boxing norms. This development indicates the growing overlap between boxing and mixed martial arts domains and raises questions about the future dynamics of fighter promotions. Hearn’s conflict with White reflects not only a personal rivalry but also strategic competition in the evolving landscape of combat sports.