In the wake of Zuffa boxing signing one of Matchroom Boxing's biggest start, Conor Benn, Matchroom's Eddie Hearn (pictured) has struck back. On Thursday, Hearn announced he had entered into an advisory agreement with reigning UFC heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall. Zuffa is essentially UFC's boxing arm. There is no intent for Aspinall to cross over into boxing, as a video making the rounds on X (formerly Twitter) shows Hearns saying, "He has a contract with the UFC so this isn't about bringing him into boxing. This is a commercial representation in an advisory capacity to help him across all of his businesses." Hearn's tweet also mentioned a new entity, Matchroom Talent Agency. Presumably, the advisory agreement is between Aspinall and Matchroom Talent Agency.
Hearns was beaming in the videos in which he announced the news. "Time to get what’s yours," tweeted the promoter, implying that he will drive a very hard bargain with UFC for future Aspinall fights.
PRIOR BOXINGTALK COVERAGE
FEB. 21, 2026: British boxing star Conor Benn announced he is bolting from Matchroom to fight under the Zuffa Boxing banner. Matchroom and its leader, Eddie Hearn, faithfully defended Benn when he tested positive for banned perfromance enhancing substances. But boxing is not a sport known for loyalty. Here is what Benn wrote: "First and foremost, I want to thank Eddie [Heanr] and the entire team at Matchroom for everything they’ve done for me over the past decade. From guiding me when I first turned pro, to headlining stadium shows, they were not only with me for those highlight moments but stood shoulder to shoulder with me during the tough times. It’s been a journey beyond anything we could have imagined, and for their belief, support, and guidance, I will always be truly grateful, but Zuffa Boxing presented me with an opportunity I simply couldn’t refuse. I’d love Eddie to continue to be part of my team and for our partnership to evolve in this new chapter. I’m filled with excitement and hunger for what’s ahead with Zuffa Boxing. I want the legacy fights, the biggest nights, the biggest stages. I fear no man at any weight, and I’m ready to give the fans the fights they’ve been calling for. I’m in my prime, and together we have bold, ambitious plans."
