Eddie Hearn Urges Dana White to Release Tom Aspinall for Fair Compensation

Eddie Hearn Urges Dana White to Release Tom Aspinall for Fair Compensation

Boxing promoter Eddie Hearn has publicly called on UFC president Dana White to release Tom Aspinall from his contract, stating that the heavyweight champion is not being compensated fairly. The 33-year-old fighter from Manchester has excelled in the UFC's heavyweight division, with seven of his eight victories coming in the first round. Hearn, who signed Aspinall to a "commercial and advisory" deal in March, is prepared to offer him significantly higher earnings if the UFC permits his departure. Tensions between Hearn and White have escalated, but it remains uncertain if Aspinall's future would lie in boxing or MMA. Key points include: Hearn is willing to abandon planned legal action regarding Conor Benn's departure to Zuffa Boxing if Aspinall is released. Hearn claims Aspinall could earn three to six times more than his current UFC contract. Despite Hearn's criticisms of the UFC's pay structure, there is no sign that the UFC would consider letting Aspinall go. Hearn expressed his thoughts, stating, "I would like to propose that Dana White should be happy for Tom Aspinall, who is extremely unhappy, and he should release him of his obligations with the UFC." Aspinall has faced challenges, including eye problems stemming from his title fight against Ciryl Gane last October, which was halted due to repeated eye pokes. Following double eye surgery in February, his return to action remains uncertain. The ongoing feud between Hearn and White has intensified with the launch of Zuffa Boxing, prompting further discussions on fighter pay in mixed martial arts.

Source: BBC Sport - 2026-06-01