Title challenger signs with Eddie Hearn ahead of UFC 330 main event

Eddie Hearn's Matchroom Talent Agency has signed UFC welterweight contender Ian Machado Garry to a commercial representation deal, underscoring an effort to grow athlete brand partnerships.The agreement comes ahead of Garry's UFC 330 title fight against Islam Makhachev on Aug. 15 and keeps Vayner Sports as his manager.Matchroom Talent Agency will oversee marketing and commercial activity only, while management remains unchanged.Hearn said the partnership is "purely to work on his profile and his commercial brand," citing Garry's personality as a reason for the signing.Earlier this year, Tom Aspinall joined Matchroom for full career representation, contrasting with Garry's scope.Garry has won 10 of his 11 UFC bouts and enters the deal after victories over Belal Muhammad and Carlos Prates.