Boxing promoter Eddie Hearn expected to expand influence in English rugby's Prem

Eddie Hearn, the boxing promoter who runs Matchroom Sport, is expected to increase his influence in rugby union after meeting leaders of the Prem, England's top-flight professional league of 10 clubs, in Monaco last week. Hearn has already signed prominent players Finn Russell and Henry Pollock.

Prem Rugby chief executive Simon Massie-Taylor said Matchroom would be a force for good. According to him, Hearn sees rugby as being on a strong trajectory and is supportive of the Prem. Massie-Taylor believes Hearn's ambitions go beyond representing athletes: he does not want to be a disruptor but to work with the league while pushing for more growth. Hearn has previously said he wants to turbo-charge the profile of rugby and its players. Massie-Taylor expects him to represent more top Prem stars and possibly become involved in events, big games or commercial projects, but does not think he intends to buy a club.

Financial report

Massie-Taylor spoke as the Prem released its second annual financial monitoring report, which showed all 10 clubs passed the financial standards for the 2026/2027 season. After London Irish, Wasps and Worcester collapsed, the league tightened its rules and now requires clubs to be more transparent about their finances.

The report shows an improved picture: revenues are up and club losses are forecast to fall by £26.7m. Newcastle Red Bulls, Exeter Chiefs and Bath Rugby have secured major external investment in the past year. No club is yet in profit, however, with Saracens and Sale reporting the heaviest losses. Massie-Taylor expects the vast majority of clubs to move into the black within five years.

Expansion plans

The report reiterates the plan to grow the Prem from 10 to 12 teams by the 2030/31 season. Future entrants must play at least one season in the second-tier Champ and pay a large cash sum for a "P-Share", thought to be worth around £20m. The Welsh Rugby Union is understood to have asked about Welsh sides joining an Anglo-Welsh league. Massie-Taylor did not rule it out entirely but said the priority is developing clubs within the English system.