Barry Hearn believes Ronnie O'Sullivan will one day thank him despite the pair having several public spats.
O'Sullivan remains snooker's biggest draw and is currently the world No.1 but has frequently been outspoken throughout his career, including aiming negative criticism at Hearn and the state of the sport.
The Rocket has won a joint-record seven world titles, the last of which came in 2022. O'Sullivan's talent at the tables has long been recognised by Hearn, who is now a lifetime president of parent organisation Matchroom, but he's had to hit back at some of the player's claims over the years.