Conor Benn was called a ‘slow boxer’ who ‘only got bigger by cheating’ in a harsh criticism.
Conor Benn has faced some tough criticism from American promoter Lou DiBella after signing a new deal with Zuffa Boxing.
On April 11, Benn made his first fight since joining Dana White’s Zuffa Boxing by winning against two-time world champion Regis Prograis at an event in London. This was his first fight after leaving Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing, and he recently signed a multi-fight, multi-year contract with Zuffa.
However, not everyone is happy about Benn’s move. On The Ariel Helwani Show, promoter Lou DiBella shared his honest opinion. He said Benn might not be as good as people think and even called him “somewhat mediocre” and suggested he’s gained unfair advantages in his career. DiBella described Benn as an “anti-hero” who’s more famous because of his father, Nigel Benn, and criticized his past actions. Despite his harsh words, DiBella said having a controversial figure like Benn under contract can be interesting.
Looking ahead, Benn is expected to fight in Las Vegas this August, likely against WBC welterweight champion Ryan Garcia. Garcia even jokingly said he plans to “blast” Benn when they fight.
Even though DiBella doesn’t like Benn, he admitted he would watch the fight and hopes Garcia wins by knockout. He praised Garcia as a talented young fighter when focused and serious.
Both Benn and Garcia have had doping controversies in the past. Garcia was suspended and fined in 2024 for testing positive for banned substances but has since returned to the ring.
It looks like the upcoming Benn vs. Garcia fight could be a big event that boxing fans won’t want to miss!