Tom Aspinall Signs with Hearn
UFC heavyweight Tom Aspinall signed with boxing promoter Eddie Hearn for representation, with UFC President Dana White calling it a "shocking" development. The move sparks speculation about potential cross-promotional bouts or new contract dynamics for UFC fighters.
This partnership makes Aspinall the first athlete to sign with Hearn's newly launched Matchroom Talent Agency. The venture is a separate entity from Matchroom Boxing and will focus on managing athletes' brands and careers both inside and outside of competition. The deal is strictly for commercial and advisory representation; Aspinall remains under contract with the UFC. Hearn's agency will handle Aspinall's business dealings, including commercial opportunities, digital presence, and legal services, while Aspinall continues to work with his existing media and management team. Previously, the UFC heavyweight champion was solely represented by his father, Andy Aspinall. This move escalates the contentious rivalry between Eddie Hearn and Dana White. It comes just weeks after Hearn's star boxer, Conor Benn, signed a deal with White's Zuffa Boxing, a move that Hearn stated left him "devastated." White, for his part, said he has no issues with Hearn representing his fighters, comparing it to when former fighter Tito Ortiz acted as a manager. The signing also follows a period of tension between Aspinall and the UFC. Aspinall and his team were reportedly unhappy with comments made by White following a no-contest result against Ciryl Gane in October 2025, where Aspinall suffered a serious double eye-poke injury. Aspinall has since undergone surgery for the injury.
