Eddie Hearn Admits Borrowing Weigh-In Idea From MVP

Eddie Hearn has acknowledged drawing inspiration from a rival promotion’s presentation style during recent fight week events. The Matchroom Boxing chairman said he adapted a raised platform format used at ceremonial weigh-ins after seeing it implemented by Jake Paul’s Most Valuable Promotions. The admission clarifies that the staging choice was intentional rather than coincidental, while also underlining how promoters track each other’s production methods.

Hearn made the comments while speaking to IFL TV, explaining that he regularly monitors how other promotions present their shows. He said the subject came up during a recent lunch with Nakisa Bidarian, Paul’s business partner at MVP, who pointed out the similarities between the two formats.

Hearn explains how the idea was adapted

According to Hearn, the concept originated at MVP weigh-ins, where fighters are elevated on platforms while standing on the scale. The setup creates a staggered visual, rather than having both fighters weigh in at the same time on the same level. Matchroom, he said, adopted a version of the idea but adjusted it to suit its own events.

“I liked what they were doing,” Hearn said. “We adapted it. People have been taking ideas from each other in this business forever.”

The presentation has since been used at several high-profile Matchroom events, including cards involving Anthony Joshua and Katie Taylor. Similar staging has also appeared at events connected to Paul’s own fights, reinforcing the shared visual language now seen across different promotions.

Monitoring rivals across combat sports

Hearn also said he is watching developments beyond boxing. He referenced Dana White’s planned Zuffa Boxing project in Las Vegas, noting that he pays attention to how other combat sports organizations approach production and event structure. The focus, he suggested, is on maintaining relevance in a crowded and competitive marketplace.

He added that promoters who dismiss ideas simply because they originate elsewhere risk being left behind. While Matchroom continues to develop its own identity, Hearn indicated that awareness of successful rivals remains part of his approach.