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Hearn: Zuffa's Shakur Bet Puts Haney in Driver's Seat
18 Jul
Summary
- Shakur Stevenson's massive Zuffa deal gives Devin Haney negotiation leverage.
- Zuffa faces pressure to book Haney to justify Shakur's lucrative contract.
- Hearn criticizes Zuffa's control over Garcia-Benn fight co-promotion.
Matchroom promoter Eddie Hearn has analyzed recent boxing developments, particularly Shakur Stevenson's signing with Zuffa and the formal announcement of Ryan Garcia versus Conor Benn.
Hearn suggests Zuffa's significant financial commitment to Stevenson places them in a difficult spot, necessitating a high-profile matchup like Devin Haney to validate their investment. This situation grants Haney considerable leverage in any potential negotiations.
Regarding the Garcia-Benn bout, Hearn expressed amusement at Zuffa's perceived overreach. He highlighted that Zuffa's ambition to exclusively control the promotion was unsuccessful, leading to a co-promotional effort with Oscar De La Hoya's Golden Boy.
Hearn characterized Zuffa's situation with Stevenson as needing to fight the 'best vs. best' to justify the contract, questioning Stevenson's ability to fight whomever he pleases given other champions on different platforms. He also pointed out the challenges Zuffa faces with Haney's team, known for being tough negotiators when holding leverage.
He further elaborated on the Garcia-Benn fight, noting Zuffa's expectation of a sole Paramount and Sky Sports broadcast was unmet. The event is now a Ring City card, co-promoted by Golden Boy and Zuffa on DAZN and Paramount, a situation Hearn believes is humbling for Zuffa.
