Conor Benn points to how Floyd Mayweather negatively impacted boxing

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Conor Benn appeared on ESPN’s First Take this Friday alongside Dana White after signing a multi-fight deal with Zuffa Boxing.

The British boxer discussed his future and the direction of the sport, offering several strong opinions. Among them was a notable comment about Floyd Mayweather’s influence on boxing.

While acknowledging Mayweather’s success, Benn suggested one aspect of his legacy may have changed how fighters approach the sport.

Conor Benn says Floyd Mayweather era made fighters afraid to lose

Photo by Mark Robinson/Matchroom Boxing/Getty Images

Benn argued that the focus on Mayweather’s undefeated 50-0 record shifted priorities in boxing, leading fighters to become more cautious.

Consequently, the number of boring fights grew and the sport became less appealing.

‘The Destroyer’ said: “Listen, I want to give people value for money. I want to give people the fights that they want. You ain’t always going to have an unbelievable night in the office. Sometimes the styles don’t suit. They don’t match up.

“But ultimately, I feel like it changed with Mayweather when he came along and it was the undefeated record. Everyone was scared of losing. Ultimately, I’d rather lose an exciting fight than win a boring fight. Because then it’s like, did you even win?

“So for me, I just want to give people value for money. I want people to want to tune in to a Conor Benn fight. Win, lose, or draw. You know, I fight with my heart on my sleeve and they’re getting everything I’ve got. I pour my soul into my fights and I give them every shot I have.”

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