Eddie Hearn Hits Back at UFC Legend Over Support for Dana White’s Promotion Rather Than Fighters

Michael Bisping has drawn the ire of Eddie Hearn for continuing 'company man' attitude towards current generation of fighters.

Eddie Hearn Hits Back at UFC Legend Over Support for Dana White’s Promotion Rather Than Fighters

Michael Bisping criticized by Eddie Hearn (via DAZN)

Ever since signing Tom Aspinall to Matchroom Talent, Eddie Hearn has become one of the UFC heavyweight champion’s biggest supporters. The Matchroom chairman has taken on key promotional and managerial responsibilities while advocating for Aspinall’s interests publicly. However, Hearn recently hit back at fellow Englishman Michael Bisping over criticism regarding Aspinall’s prolonged inactivity.

At UFC 321, Aspinall was set to make the inaugural defense of his undisputed title against Ciryl Gane. However, the main event ended abruptly after the British champion suffered a double eye poke during the opening round. The injury left Aspinall medically unfit to continue, resulting in the bout being ruled a no contest. Since then, he has remained sidelined while undergoing surgeries and recovery procedures.

Bisping recently discussed Aspinall’s social media activity with fellow veteran Paul Felder. The UFC Hall of Famer questioned several recent posts and revealed he had not spoken with Aspinall for months. He suggested something unusual might be happening behind the scenes regarding the champion’s situation. Those comments eventually led to a response from Hearn, who defended Aspinall’s circumstances.

Michael Bisping should be ashamed… These are people that are on the payroll. These are people that don’t have any backbone about them. He is a fighter. He should stand up for what’s right for fighters. So what are you saying, Bisping?‘ Do as you’re told. Shut up, take your money. That’s all you’re worth. There’s 60 million in the pot. Be quiet. You’re getting 3% of the pot.’ Bisping should be standing up for the best interests of the fighter, not allowing fighters to be suppressed and bullied and told what to do or what to accept.

Eddie Hearn via The Ariel Helwani Show

Bisping was once one of Aspinall’s biggest supporters and remained a strong advocate throughout his UFC rise. The two shared a close relationship from the early stages of Aspinall’s career. The former middleweight champion even suggested his fellow Englishman could have a Muhammad Ali-like impact on MMA. That praise reflected the immense respect Bisping held for Aspinall and his potential influence.

‘The Count’ understands the seriousness of eye injuries, having lost vision in one eye following his fight with Vitor Belfort. In the immediate aftermath of Aspinall’s injury, he advised the heavyweight not to return until fully recovered. However, Aspinall’s recent social media activity appeared to alter that view. Posts criticizing the UFC and showcasing day-to-day activities led Bisping to question the situation.

Eddie Hearn recently claimed Aspinall’s confidence suffered amid criticism following UFC 321 and the difficult recovery that followed. The British promorter suggested the heavyweight felt abandoned as scrutiny around his situation continued to increase. His latest criticism of Bisping appears to reflect that stance, as he continues defending Tom Aspinall against questions surrounding his prolonged absence.

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Eddie Hearn criticizes the recent events held by Dana White’s Zuffa Boxing

Dana White has made it clear that he wants to reshape boxing using a model similar to the UFC’s structure. His plans include streamlining weight classes, reducing fragmentation. White also aims to deliver smoother broadcasts with fewer interruptions and breaks between bouts. The approach represents a significant shift from traditional boxing, and one of its most vocal critics has remained Eddie Hearn.

Eddie Hearn talks about Dana White
Eddie Hearn talks about Dana White (via Variety, Boxing Scene)

White’s Zuffa Boxing has already staged events featuring fighters such as Callum Walsh and Jai Opetaia. Many of those cards have been held at the Meta Apex under the promotion’s banner. The organization has now hosted seven Zuffa Boxing events and Zuffa Boxing 08 is set for June 28, 2026 . Despite that, Hearn recently criticized the quality of the shows and questioned the product being delivered.

The boxing product has been awful… What’s the difference between that and a Ben Shalom show? Nothing. You keep saying, ‘Judge me on what we’re doing.’ Well, I’m judging you on what you’re doing, and it’s very low-level. Ultimately, it’s not Dana’s company. Dana works for Turki Alalshikh, who’s the biggest shareholder… How long will that funding carry from those guys, and how long will you be up for the battle?

Eddie Hearn via The Ariel Helwani Show

This is not the first time Hearn has challenged Dana White’s stance on Zuffa Boxing. The Matchroom chairman has previously urged White to give greater credit to Saudi executive Turki Alalshikh, a major driving force behind the project.

As the promotion grows, Eddie Hearn has remained skeptical of its direction. His latest criticism shows the divide between the two promoters remains strong.

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