Rising England star Henry Pollock signs with Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom

Henry Pollock has signed with Eddie Hearn ’s Matchroom Talent Agency in another sign of the England international’s burgeoning profile. The 21-year-old becomes the first rugby player signed by Hearn, who makes a first foray into the sport having recently attended the Six Nations game between Wales and Italy in Cardiff. Pollock has risen rapidly into one of English rugby’s most recognisable and promising players since making his international debut last year, touring with the British and Irish Lions to Australia and establishing himself as a regular in Steve Borthwick’s squad.

The Northampton Saints back rower made his first Test start against Ireland during the Six Nations and featured off the bench in England’s four other games. He has established a strong connection with young fans particularly, and is seen within the sport as a personality around which it can build. Hearn’s move into rugby is just as interesting.

The chairman of Matchroom Sport and the Professional Darts Corporation, the 46-year-old has followed in the footsteps of father Barry as an influential figure within a number of sports, and boxing particularly. “Welcome to the Team 21 year old England and Lions talent Henry Pollock,” Hearn posted on social media. “I watched this young man and thought superstar!

“Then I met him, understood the passion, vision and desire and had to be a part of this journey. Sometimes someone special comes along that has all the ingredients to change the sport. Rugby here we come.