Agitated Eddie Hearn leaves press conference after Conor McGregor question
“You had to do it, didn't you?”
Katie Taylor celebrates with her backroom team
Matchroom boss Eddie Hearn refused to discuss his company’s relationship with the Conor McGregor-owned Forged Irish Stout at the official Katie Taylor/Chantelle Cameron press conference last night.
Forged Stout’s involvement as a sponsor in last night’s epic encounter came under scrutiny in the wake of comments made by McGregor on social media, particularly during the riots in Dublin city centre on Thursday. He did not attend the fight in the 3Arena.
When I attempted to ask a question about Matchroom’s relation with the company, Hearn said he was bored talking about McGregor.
Addressing me directly, an agitated Hearn said: “You had to do it, didn't you? I have to tell you this: I'm so bored of talking about it. All you ever do is look for a negative.
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“Conor McGregor is Conor McGregor. I don't represent him, I don't talk about his comments. He has a brand that has backed the sport of boxing.
“It has nothing to do with Katie Taylor, the show, the company. His opinions are his opinions. Tonight, we celebrate one of your greatest ever athletes. No more questions about Conor McGregor.”
When I pointed out that as a journalist I was obliged to asked the question, he replied.
“Then you can ask me away from the press conference. You can ask me afterwards. I'll answer it. Not in front of Katie Taylor.
“This is her night and congratulations to one of the greatest athletes I've ever had the pleasure of working with.”
Hearn then left the top table and the 25-minute press conference came to an end.
