Tom Aspinall signs with Eddie Hearn's agency for advice on March 5, 2026

UFC Champion Tom Aspinall has signed with Eddie Hearn's new talent agency. This is his first professional management deal, unlike his previous deal handled by his father.
By Newsroom | Sports, MMA |

A HEAVYWEIGHT SHIFT: ASPINALL'S COMMERCIAL ALLIANCE WITH HEARN'S AGENCY

Tom Aspinall, the current UFC World Heavyweight Champion, has inked a commercial and advisory agreement with Eddie Hearn's newly unveiled Matchroom Talent Agency. This development signifies Aspinall's first professional management deal, with his father and head coach, Andy Aspinall, having previously handled his affairs. Crucially, this arrangement does not alter Aspinall's standing with the UFC; he remains under contract with the promotion. The signing establishes Aspinall as the inaugural client of Hearn's new venture, a move framed by Hearn as aligning with his broader expansion into talent representation across sports.

The arrangement, announced across multiple platforms late last week, places Hearn in an advisory capacity, guiding Aspinall's future career moves. Hearn, already a prominent figure in boxing as chairman of Matchroom Boxing and a guiding force behind athletes like Anthony Joshua and Katie Taylor, is now extending his reach into mixed martial arts talent. This strategic positioning comes at a time of noted professional friction between Hearn and UFC boss Dana White, particularly following White's own foray into boxing promotion with Zuffa Boxing.

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UNDER THE RADAR, OVERTURE TO BOXING?

While the current agreement is strictly for representation and advice, it opens up speculative avenues regarding Aspinall's long-term aspirations. Aspinall himself has previously vocalized intentions to explore boxing opportunities toward the latter stages of his athletic career, a move aimed at maximizing financial returns. The Matchroom Talent Agency's stated services encompass digital expertise, management, and publishing, suggesting a comprehensive approach to shaping its clients' careers beyond their immediate athletic endeavors.

Tom Aspinall signs deal with Eddie Hearn - 1

The new agency operates under the umbrella of Matchroom Sport, which also includes established entities in boxing, darts, and snooker. This diverse portfolio hints at a strategic effort to leverage existing infrastructure and cross-promotional possibilities.

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The significance of this union is amplified by the reported "rivalry" between Hearn and White. Hearn's acquisition of a prominent UFC athlete for his new agency is being interpreted by some as a direct, albeit indirect, countermove in this unfolding professional landscape. This is not a promotional deal that binds Aspinall to boxing promotions, but rather a professional advisory and commercial partnership.

A RECENT SHUFFLE

The announcement of the deal was made on Thursday, March 5, 2026, signaling a rapid development in Aspinall's professional management. Prior to this, Aspinall had not previously engaged professional management, relying on his father's guidance. The exact timeline for Aspinall's next UFC appearance remains unstated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What new deal did UFC Champion Tom Aspinall sign on March 5, 2026?
UFC World Heavyweight Champion Tom Aspinall signed a commercial and advisory agreement with Eddie Hearn's new Matchroom Talent Agency. This is his first professional management deal.
Q: Does Tom Aspinall's new deal with Eddie Hearn's agency affect his UFC contract?
No, this new agreement does not change Tom Aspinall's standing with the UFC. He will continue to be under contract with the promotion for his fights.
Q: What kind of advice will Eddie Hearn's agency give Tom Aspinall?
The Matchroom Talent Agency will provide Tom Aspinall with advice on his future career moves, including potential opportunities in boxing later in his career. The agency also offers digital expertise, management, and publishing services.
Q: Who was Tom Aspinall's manager before signing with Matchroom Talent Agency?
Before this new deal announced on March 5, 2026, Tom Aspinall's affairs were handled by his father and head coach, Andy Aspinall.
Q: Is Tom Aspinall moving to boxing because he signed with Eddie Hearn's agency?
No, this deal is for professional advice and commercial representation, not a promotional deal for boxing. Aspinall has spoken about exploring boxing later in his career, but this signing does not mean he is leaving the UFC or immediately switching sports.