Matchroom's Hearn expected to increase Prem influence

Renowned boxing promoter Eddie Hearn is expected to ramp up his influence in rugby union after meeting with Prem bosses in Monaco last week.

Hearn, who runs Matchroom Sport, has made a foray into rugby by signing high-profile players Finn Russell and Henry Pollock to his stable.

And the sports mogul has been backed to make a big impact in the sport by senior figures in the English game.

"[Matchroom] will be a force for good. [Hearn] sees that rugby is on a great trajectory and he's very pro the Prem," said Prem Rugby chief executive Simon Massie-Taylor.

"I think his ambition goes beyond just representing top athletes.