Matchroom Boxing executive Eddie Hearn is poised to enter the mixed martial arts arena, signaling his intent to launch an MMA promotion and potentially sign several high-profile UFC fighters. This move intensifies his ongoing rivalry with UFC CEO Dana White, which has previously played out in the boxing world.
The tension between White and Hearn escalated following White’s launch of Zuffa Boxing and the controversial signing of Conor Benn, a former Matchroom fighter, to a lucrative one-fight deal. Hearn has consistently voiced criticism regarding the UFC’s business model, particularly its compensation structure for fighters and its approach to promoting athlete personalities.
In a strategic counter-move, Hearn recently joined UFC heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall’s team in an advisory capacity, hinting that this partnership is merely the precursor to his broader MMA ambitions.
Hearn’s Vision for MMA: ‘Done the Right Way’ and Targeting UFC Stars
During a recent interview on Politely Raw with Pacman Jones, Hearn elaborated on his plans for MMA. “It’s something we’re looking at, but I want to get it right. I don’t understand the sport enough yet,” Hearn stated, adding that his collaboration with Aspinall is helping him grasp fighter dynamics and contract specifics. He expressed a desire for a successful and properly executed venture, rather than a rushed deal.
Hearn boldly claimed that Matchroom could sign “5-6 of the biggest names in the UFC” by the summer. He identified a critical flaw in the UFC’s strategy: “The biggest problem that the UFC has is that they’re not driving the profiles, personalities, and storylines of these fighters.” Citing the success of cards featuring well-known personalities, Hearn lamented the perceived stagnation of star power within the UFC.
He specifically pointed to Conor McGregor, the sport’s biggest star, questioning his financial compensation and contrasting it with Conor Benn’s $15 million deal. Hearn suggested McGregor should command “100 million,” emphasizing that “These are the personalities that are dying in the UFC.” This comment comes amidst McGregor’s much-anticipated comeback being notably absent from the upcoming UFC Freedom 250 card, despite not having fought since his leg injury in 2021.
