UFC heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall has signed with Eddie Hearn's Matchroom Talent Agency in a landmark move that bridges boxing and MMA. The deal, announced Thursday, marks Matchroom's first venture into mixed martial arts representation, with Hearn taking on an advisory role for the British fighter.

Hearn, who has guided the careers of boxing stars like Anthony Joshua and Katie Taylor, called Aspinall the perfect embodiment of his agency's values. The partnership comes amid escalating tensions between Hearn and UFC president Dana White, who recently signed British boxer Conor Benn from Matchroom's roster. Aspinall, who hasn't fought since his October title defense against Ciryl Gane was stopped due to eye pokes, will have Hearn help navigate his commercial opportunities while remaining under UFC contract.

The move signals Matchroom's expansion beyond boxing and positions Aspinall to maximize his earning potential outside the Octagon. A London news conference is scheduled for Friday to detail the partnership, which Hearn described as an ideal next step for both parties.