Eddie Hearn vs. Michael Bisping: UFC pay debate over Tom Aspinall

Boxing promoter Eddie Hearn and UFC commentator Michael Bisping have clashed publicly over fighter compensation in the UFC, with Hearn's recent criticism of Bisping drawing a sharp response. On June 24, 2026, during an appearance on The Ariel Helwani Show, Hearn suggested that Bisping, who maintains close ties to the UFC as a commentator, lacks credibility when discussing fighter pay issues. Hearn specifically criticized the compensation package being offered to heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall for an upcoming title unification bout against Ciryl Gane, arguing that Bisping should advocate more forcefully on behalf of fighters receiving fair treatment. "Michael Bisping should be ashamed of what is being proposed to Tom Aspinall to be in a fight like Ciryl Gane with that amount of money that is in the pot," Hearn said, before challenging Bisping to a public debate on the matter. Bisping responded via his podcast, denying Hearn's characterization and asserting he has no knowledge of Aspinall's actual pay terms. The former UFC middleweight champion rejected the notion that he lacks integrity, framing Hearn's comments as part of a broader dispute between the promoter and UFC president Dana White. "I have no idea the money that Tom is getting paid," Bisping stated, while offering to meet Hearn face-to-face in London rather than engage in online debate. Bisping maintained that his role as a commentator reflects genuine care for the sport and its athletes, countering suggestions that his UFC affiliation compromises his position on fighter welfare. The heavyweight title unification between Aspinall and Gane remains officially unannounced, though both camps have signaled interest in the bout.