UFC heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall has hired boxing promoter Eddie Hearn as his new manager, sparking discussions about his compensation. At a London press conference, Hearn expressed astonishment at Aspinall's current earnings, suggesting they should be ten times higher. The move aims to boost Aspinall's profile ahead of his return to the octagon.
Tom Aspinall, the UFC heavyweight champion, recently announced that he has brought on Eddie Hearn, the head of Matchroom Boxing, as his manager. This partnership was highlighted during a press conference in London, where Hearn emphasized Aspinall's status as a global superstar. "Unbelievable turnout," Hearn remarked in a video on Aspinall's YouTube channel. He noted the overwhelming media presence, stating, "Tom Aspinall is swamped with media like some of the biggest stars in the game." Hearn predicted that this exposure would elevate Aspinall's profile significantly in just 24 hours.
Hearn's involvement draws from his experience promoting fighters like Anthony Joshua and Conor Benn, who have secured eight-figure deals. In contrast, Hearn was candid about Aspinall's UFC purses. "When I talked through Tom Aspinall’s purses, I nearly fell off the f--king chair," he said. He added that in his own business, Aspinall would earn ten times more. With two fights remaining on his current UFC contract, Hearn implied that negotiations could lead to substantial pay increases, especially given Aspinall's value to the organization.
"They need him because they need heavyweight stars," Hearn stated, underscoring Aspinall's appeal as a young, entertaining fighter. UK media outlets attended in force, with Daily Mail reporter Charlotte Daly commenting on the buzz. She noted rumors of Aspinall potentially transitioning to boxing but clarified that he has denied this for now, possibly considering it later in his career. Daly expressed optimism, saying the partnership could raise purses and generate more interest in UFC events. While past UFC fighters have voiced similar pay concerns without resolution, Hearn's promotional expertise may push for changes this time.
