Overview
- The dispute escalated publicly on Tuesday when Matchroom boss Eddie Hearn accused commentator Michael Bisping of siding with the UFC over Aspinall’s pay and challenged him to a live debate, and Bisping forcefully denied criticizing Aspinall’s compensation.
- Bisping said he never mentioned Aspinall’s pay and offered to meet Hearn privately in London rather than debate on air, framing his remarks as concern over the timing of Aspinall’s return and Hearn’s public role.
- Aspinall signed with Hearn’s Matchroom earlier this year and has been cleared to resume training, which Matchroom says opens the door for a rematch with interim champion Ciryl Gane if terms are agreed.
- Matchroom is pressing the UFC for materially better financial and contractual terms for Aspinall, while the UFC retains formal control over official title bookings because of the promotion’s fighter contracts.
- Observers say the spat is part of a broader, ongoing feud between Hearn and UFC president Dana White that could affect fighter pay, the timing of a heavyweight unification bout, and how promoters negotiate marquee fights.