Claims that Conor Benn Avoided Major Fights Before Joining Zuffa Boxing

May 5, 2026, 14:57
UKSports

Introduction

Promoter Eddie Hearn has claimed that boxer Conor Benn turned down three chances to fight for a world title before ending his professional relationship with Matchroom.

Main Body

The contract between Conor Benn and Matchroom ended in February, and Benn subsequently moved to Zuffa Boxing. This separation happened even though Eddie Hearn had supported Benn for two years after the boxer failed drug tests. Hearn told several media outlets, including Boxing News, that Benn specifically refused three championship fights: a welterweight match against Lewis Crocker, a WBA title fight against Rolly Romero, and a super-welterweight fight with Josh Kelly. Hearn emphasized that these refusals were based on money, suggesting that Benn wanted to avoid the risk of losing in fights that did not pay enough, preferring to wait for more profitable opportunities instead. After joining Zuffa, Benn won a points victory against Regis Prograis in an April fight. However, it is important to note that Prograis, a former champion, was already injured before the fight and has since retired. Following a series of matches against Chris Eubank Jr in 2025, Benn is expected to return to the welterweight division.

Conclusion

Benn continues to be promoted by Zuffa Boxing following his departure from Matchroom and his recent win over Regis Prograis.

Learning

โšก The 'Professional Logic' Shift: From Simple to Sophisticated

At the A2 level, you describe things as they happen: "Benn left Matchroom. He joined Zuffa." To reach B2, you must connect ideas using Logical Transition Markers. This changes your speech from a list of facts to a professional narrative.

๐Ÿ” The 'B2 Bridge' Analysis

Look at these three phrases from the text. They are the 'glue' that makes the writing sound advanced:

  1. "Subsequently" โ†’\rightarrow (A2 version: Then/After that)

    • Usage: Use this when one event happens as a direct result or following another.
    • Example: "The contract ended, and Benn subsequently moved to Zuffa."

  2. "Even though" โ†’\rightarrow (A2 version: But)

    • Usage: This introduces a contrast that surprises the reader. It shows you can handle complex sentence structures.
    • Example: "This happened even though Hearn had supported Benn."

  3. "However" โ†’\rightarrow (A2 version: But)

    • Usage: Used at the start of a sentence to pivot the direction of the argument. It is the gold standard for B2 academic and professional English.
    • Example: "Benn won... However, it is important to note that Prograis was injured."

๐Ÿ› ๏ธ Practical Application

Stop using 'But' and 'Then' for everything. Try this mental swap:

  • Instead of: "I studied hard but I failed." โ†’\rightarrow Try: "Even though I studied hard, I failed."
  • Instead of: "I finished work then I went home." โ†’\rightarrow Try: "I finished work and subsequently went home."
  • Instead of: "The car is old but it works." โ†’\rightarrow Try: "The car is old. However, it still works."

Vocabulary Learning

promoter (n.)
A person or company that organizes and promotes events or performances.
Example:Eddie Hearn is a wellโ€‘known promoter in the boxing world.
contract (n.)
A written or spoken agreement that is enforceable by law.
Example:The contract between Conor Benn and Matchroom ended in February.
separation (n.)
The act of separating or the state of being separated.
Example:The separation from Matchroom allowed Benn to join Zuffa Boxing.
supported (v.)
To give assistance or encouragement to someone.
Example:Eddie Hearn had supported Benn for two years.
refused (v.)
To decline or reject something that is offered.
Example:Benn refused three championship fights.
championship (n.)
A contest to determine the best in a sport or activity.
Example:The WBA title fight is a championship match.
match (n.)
A contest or competition between opponents.
Example:Benn won a points victory in a match against Regis Prograis.
risk (n.)
The possibility of danger, harm, or loss.
Example:Benn avoided fights that carried a high risk of losing.
profitable (adj.)
Providing financial gain or advantage.
Example:He preferred more profitable opportunities.
injury (n.)
Physical harm or damage to the body.
Example:Prograis was already injured before the fight.