UFC champion Aspinall signs agreement with boxing promoter Hearn
UFC heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall has entered into an agreement with Eddie Hearn’s newly formed Matchroom Talent Agency.
The announcement regarding the signing and the launch of Matchroom’s new agency was made on Thursday, marking a significant development for both Aspinall and the British promoter.
Hearn, who serves as chairman of Matchroom Boxing and has overseen the careers of former two-time heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua and two-weight undisputed women’s champion Katie Taylor, will now manage and provide guidance to Aspinall as he embarks on his initial venture into MMA.
The UFC champion hinted at the announcement on social media on Thursday with the phrase “back to business.”
Matchroom is set to hold a press conference in London on Friday.
Hearn expressed his belief that this move represents an ideal progression for both himself and Matchroom, praising Aspinall as the perfect first signing.
“It has become a guiding principle to seek out individuals who are humble yet heroic in equal measure. Their journey is our journey. Their triumph, our purpose,” Hearn stated.
“UFC world heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall perfectly embodies that — and he is the ideal inaugural member of our team.”
This development occurs amidst an escalating rivalry between Hearn and UFC president Dana White, who is also now at the helm of Zuffa Boxing.
The two promoters have exchanged remarks in the media in recent weeks, with White delivering a notable setback by signing British fighter Conor Benn from Hearn, who had anticipated Benn would emerge as their leading star in the upcoming years.
Meanwhile, Aspinall has not competed since defending his title in October against Ciryl Gane.
The bout was halted due to multiple eye pokes sustained by Aspinall. He has since undergone surgery and has now chosen to have Hearn assist in navigating his future endeavors.
“I’m truly excited to welcome Eddie [Hearn] and the Matchroom Sport group in a commercial and advisory capacity, and to become the first athlete to join the new Matchroom Talent Agency,” Aspinall remarked.
“Eddie has established one of the largest brands in sports and knows how to elevate athletes to the next level, both in and out of competition.”
