Matchroom had overseen Benn’s development from prospect to headliner, positioning him as one of Britain’s most visible fighters. That relationship took on added significance in 2022, when Benn tested positive for a banned substance ahead of his originally scheduled fight with Chris Eubank Jr. Hearn continued promoting Benn through the fallout, backing his return to the ring while scrutiny around his career remained unresolved.
Now, after 25 fights, Benn has chosen to continue his career under a different promotional structure.
“Zuffa Boxing presented me with an opportunity I simply couldn’t refuse,” Benn said. “I’m filled with excitement and hunger for what’s ahead with Zuffa Boxing. I want the legacy fights, the biggest nights, the biggest stages.”
Zuffa Boxing is being launched under TKO Group Holdings in partnership with Sela, the Saudi entertainment company that has financed several of boxing’s recent major events. Benn joins a roster that already includes IBF cruiserweight champion Jai Opetaia, heavyweight contender Efe Ajagba, and former world champion Mark Magsayo, as the promotion begins establishing its position in the sport.
Benn enters the move with a 24-1 record following his two-fight series with Eubank Jr., both of which drew large crowds at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London. Despite not yet holding a world title, he has remained one of Britain’s most commercially viable fighters, capable of headlining major events.
His departure closes a partnership defined not only by his rise but also by the period in which his promoter remained publicly aligned with him during controversy. His future now shifts to a promotion still defining its role in boxing, with Benn becoming one of the fighters tasked with establishing its presence inside the sport.
