Tom Aspinall on Conor Benn’s $15M Deal: UFC Pay ‘Bothered’ Him
The burgeoning rivalry between the UFC and Zuffa Boxing is extending beyond the realm of boxing promotions, impacting fighter negotiations and potentially reshaping the landscape of mixed martial arts representation. A recent business deal struck between UFC heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall and Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Talent Agency appears to be a direct consequence of Zuffa Boxing’s aggressive foray into the boxing world, specifically their high-profile signing of Conor Benn.
In February, Dana White’s Zuffa Boxing made waves by securing a one-fight deal with Benn, reportedly worth $15 million. This move, while bolstering Zuffa’s presence in boxing, also drew criticism regarding the disparity in fighter compensation between the two sports. The financial gulf became a point of contention, particularly as it contrasted with the earnings of UFC fighters like Aspinall.
Aspinall’s subsequent decision to partner with Hearn’s newly formed talent agency, rather than a traditional promotional deal, signals a shift in how fighters are approaching their careers and seeking representation. While Aspinall remains contracted to fight in the UFC, the agreement with Matchroom provides him with professional advice and commercial opportunities outside of the Octagon. This move is widely seen as a response to the perceived imbalance in financial opportunities, fueled by Zuffa Boxing’s lucrative deal with Benn.
“I mean, I think it’s bothered everybody,” Aspinall admitted during a press conference with Hearn on . “If one guy is being paid $15 million and the other is getting $15,000, that’s pretty different. Which is part of the reason I want to explore other options.”
The situation is further complicated by the existing tension between White, and Hearn. Zuffa Boxing’s acquisition of Benn, who previously spent his entire professional boxing career with Matchroom, was a clear challenge to Hearn’s promotional dominance. White, however, downplayed any animosity, stating, “We don’t have any issues with Eddie. They can get whoever they want to represent them.” He even drew a parallel to his past relationship with Tito Ortiz, suggesting that having fighters represented by outside entities isn’t necessarily a problem.
Despite White’s public stance, Aspinall’s move is undeniably a strategic one. He is seeking to maximize his earning potential and expand his commercial opportunities, particularly as he recovers from recent eye injuries sustained during a no-contest bout against Ciryl Gane in October 2025. The fight was stopped due to accidental eye pokes, requiring Aspinall to undergo surgery on both eyes in February 2026.
White has denied questioning the severity of Aspinall’s injuries, stating that he hasn’t spoken directly to the champion since the surgery but that the company has been in contact. However, Aspinall and his father reportedly felt that White’s initial comments regarding the injury were dismissive. This perceived lack of support further contributed to Aspinall’s decision to seek external representation.
Hearn has been vocal in his support of Aspinall, suggesting that the UFC champion was “humiliated” by White’s handling of the eye injury situation. The partnership with Matchroom Talent Agency allows Aspinall to leverage Hearn’s expertise in negotiation and commercial deals, potentially bridging the gap in earnings between UFC fighters and their boxing counterparts.
While Aspinall’s future in the UFC remains secure for now, the situation highlights a growing trend of fighters seeking greater control over their careers and financial destinies. The emergence of Zuffa Boxing and the subsequent competition with established boxing promoters like Hearn are creating new dynamics in the combat sports landscape. Aspinall’s deal with Hearn is not a move to boxing, according to Hearn, but a strategic play to enhance his value and secure more favorable terms within the UFC.
The UFC is also preparing for a unique event, hosting fights at the White House on , to commemorate 250 years of American independence. The event, costing $60 million, is expected to feature several high-profile fighters, though the official fight card will be announced shortly. This ambitious undertaking underscores the UFC’s continued growth and its commitment to expanding its reach beyond traditional pay-per-view events.
The Aspinall-Hearn partnership, born from the fallout of the Benn-Zuffa Boxing deal, represents a significant development in the ongoing power struggle between the UFC and the boxing world. It remains to be seen whether this is an isolated incident or the beginning of a larger shift in how fighters navigate the complexities of the modern combat sports industry. For Aspinall, it’s a calculated move to maximize his potential and ensure he receives the financial recognition he believes he deserves.