Eddie Hearn's Matchroom signs UFC champions Garry and Aspinall, sparking UFC dispute

Welterweight contender Ian Machado Garry announced a marketing and commercial partnership with Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Talent Agency ahead of his UFC 330 title fight against Islam Makhachev on 15 August 2026 in Philadelphia. The deal covers only commercial interests; his existing manager Vayner Sports will continue to handle fight negotiations.

Undisputed heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall, who underwent double‑eye surgery after a 2025 bout with Ciryl Gane, also signed a commercial and advisory agreement with Matchroom. He is preparing for a rematch with interim champion Gane, while Hearn publicly demands a higher purse for Aspinall and has warned against fighting under his current UFC contract.

Hearn’s involvement has intensified a feud with UFC CEO Dana White, who launched the competing Zuffa Boxing promotion earlier in 2026. Hearn also criticised former UFC champion Michael Bisping for questioning Aspinall’s delayed return and pay, stating that commentators “should stand up for fighters”. The public exchange underscores growing tension between the boxing promoter’s agency and the UFC hierarchy.