UFC Heavyweight Champion Tom Aspinall Joins Forces with Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Talent Agency
London, UK – March 5, 2026 – In a significant move for both parties, UFC Heavyweight Champion Tom Aspinall has signed a commercial and advisory deal with Eddie Hearn’s newly launched Matchroom Talent Agency. The announcement, made Thursday, marks Hearn’s foray into mixed martial arts representation and adds a major star to the agency’s roster.
Hearn Expands into MMA Talent Management
Matchroom Talent Agency, a new subsidiary of Matchroom Sport, was created by Chairman Eddie Hearn to manage and service leading sports and entertainment talent. The agency will focus on building athletes’ brands and reputations, offering services ranging from commercial partnerships to publishing, digital media, broadcast rights, and legal counsel. This expansion sits alongside Matchroom’s existing ventures in boxing, professional darts, snooker, and multi-sport events. Matchroom Sport officially announced the launch and signing today.
Aspinall’s Career and the New Partnership
Aspinall, 32, became the first British fighter to be crowned UFC Heavyweight Champion in 2025. Ranked among the top 10 pound-for-pound MMA fighters globally, Aspinall will continue to work with his existing media and management team while benefiting from the additional services provided by Matchroom Talent Agency. CBS Sports reports the partnership is a representation deal, with Hearn’s team handling Aspinall’s business dealings both inside and outside the Octagon.
Hearn’s Vision for Matchroom Talent Agency
“I started my professional career in athlete management and over the past 30 years, I have built a wealth of experience in building global superstars,” said Hearn in a statement. He emphasized the agency’s commitment to partnership, transparency, and delivering innovative work, grounded in honesty and ambition. ESPN highlights Hearn’s belief that Aspinall embodies the qualities Matchroom seeks in its clients: humility and heroism.
Context of the Deal: Rivalry with Dana White
The signing of Aspinall comes amid a growing rivalry between Hearn and UFC boss Dana White, particularly after White’s Zuffa Boxing secured the services of British fighter Conor Benn, previously managed by Matchroom. This move is seen by some as a strategic response by Hearn, bolstering his talent roster in the face of competition from the UFC. MMA Junkie notes this context, framing the deal as a countermove in the ongoing promoter dynamic.
Aspinall’s Future and Upcoming Press Conference
Aspinall, who hasn’t fought since defending his title in October against Ciryl Gane – a bout stopped due to eye pokes – expressed his excitement about the partnership. “Eddie has built one of the biggest brands in Sport and understands how to take athletes to the next level, both inside and outside of competition,” Aspinall stated. Matchroom will host a press conference in London on Friday, March 6, to formally announce the partnership. Media registration is required via the provided link on Matchroom’s website.