Tom Aspinall Signs with Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Talent Agency Amidst Dana White Feud

UFC heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall has signed with Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Talent Agency, a move announced on Thursday, March 5, 2026, signaling a deepening rift between Hearn and UFC President Dana White. The signing comes weeks after White’s Zuffa Boxing secured a deal with Conor Benn, a fighter previously promoted by Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing.

A Response to White’s Move

The move is widely seen as a direct response to Dana White signing Conor Benn to a multi-million dollar deal with Zuffa Boxing. Hearn announced the signing on social media, stating, “Welcome to the team UFC heavyweight champ, Tom Aspinall. Time to get what’s yours.” Aspinall confirmed the news on Threads, expressing his excitement to join the Matchroom Talent Agency.

What Does This Mean for Aspinall?

Aspinall’s deal with Matchroom Talent Agency is a commercial and advisory agreement, meaning Hearn’s agency will manage Aspinall’s business interests both inside and outside of the Octagon. This includes representation and potentially exploring opportunities beyond the UFC. Aspinall hasn’t fought since a no-contest result against Ciryl Gane at UFC 321 in October, due to an eye poke, and has undergone multiple surgeries to address the injuries sustained.

The Hearn-White Feud

The relationship between Eddie Hearn and Dana White has deteriorated in recent months. Initially, the two promoters maintained a respectful, mutually beneficial relationship, even as White entered the boxing world. Although, tensions escalated over White’s lobbying efforts against the Muhammad Ali Act and, more significantly, the signing of Conor Benn. White publicly criticized Hearn, using harsh language, while Hearn responded by suggesting White was reliant on Turki Alalshikh.

Implications for the Future

With Hearn now representing the UFC heavyweight champion, future negotiations regarding Aspinall’s career may require direct communication between Hearn and White. It remains to be seen how this new dynamic will impact Aspinall’s return to the cage and his future within the UFC. Aspinall recently hinted at an impending announcement regarding his return, posting “back to business” on social media, but a specific timeline remains unclear.

Key Takeaways

• Tom Aspinall has signed with Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Talent Agency.
• The signing is widely viewed as a response to Dana White signing Conor Benn.
• Aspinall is recovering from eye injuries sustained in his fight against Ciryl Gane.
• The Hearn-White relationship has significantly deteriorated in recent months.
• Future negotiations regarding Aspinall’s career may involve direct talks between Hearn and White.

As Aspinall recovers and prepares for his return, the partnership with Hearn’s agency could prove pivotal in navigating his career and maximizing his opportunities in the evolving landscape of combat sports.