Zuffa Gave Conor Benn $15M, Offered Shakur Stevenson $7M

Zuffa Boxing reportedly offered Shakur Stevenson $7 million to fight Jose Valenzuela before the four-division champion walked away, despite paying Conor Benn a reported $15 million earlier this year. Stevenson, who sought $15 million per fight, requested his release only 102 days after signing with the promotion. The unbeaten American spent eight weeks in training camp without stepping into the ring, reportedly growing frustrated over fight scheduling.

Phil Jay argues that the contrast raises serious questions about Dana White's boxing operation and its future. In Benn's case, TKO president Mark Shapiro previously clarified that Saudi partner Sela funded the $15 million purse for a Saudi-backed event against Regis Prograis. However, Stevenson's departure leaves lingering doubts regarding matchmaking and the involvement of Saudi matchmaker Turki Alalshikh.