UFC chief dismisses friction after fighter signs with boxing promoter.
Dana White, the visible head of the UFC, has asserted that there are "no issues" following Tom Aspinall's move to sign with boxing promoter Eddie Hearn's Matchroom Talent Agency. This development, reported across multiple outlets, comes amidst an ongoing public spat between White and Hearn, a rivalry seemingly amplified by White's recent foray into boxing promotion with Zuffa Boxing. Aspinall's agreement with Hearn is described as a commercial and advisory role, with the fighter remaining under contract with the UFC. This means Aspinall is not switching combat sports disciplines but is engaging Hearn for representation and guidance outside of his Octagon commitments.
White, speaking to reporters, stated he "likes him [Aspinall] very much and respect him." He specifically denied ever questioning the severity of Aspinall's past injuries, including ongoing eye issues requiring surgery last month. White acknowledged he has not spoken directly with Aspinall since the eye procedures but maintains there was never any doubt cast on the fighter's physical condition by him.
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The Aspinall-Hearn Deal
The arrangement places Aspinall, the reigning UFC heavyweight champion, under the umbrella of Hearn's new agency. This move is notable, occurring just two weeks after boxer Conor Benn transitioned from Hearn's Matchroom Boxing to join White's Zuffa Boxing. White alluded to past complicated relationships, comparing the current situation to his experience managing Tito Ortiz, a fighter with whom he later endured a protracted feud.
While White insists on a lack of personal conflict with Aspinall, the fighter himself had previously expressed disappointment, claiming White had dismissed his injury concerns and that communication had been absent. Aspinall's stated goal remains a swift return to competition within the UFC, having last fought in October.
Wider Context and White House Plans
The entanglement of Aspinall, Hearn, and White occurs as the UFC prepares for a significant event at the White House on June 14th. Fight announcements for this unprecedented card are reportedly imminent, with a list of prominent fighters, including Jon Jones, Conor McGregor, Alex Pereira, Amanda Nunes, Nate Diaz, and Islam Makhachev, having expressed interest in participating.
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