Anthony Joshua’s promoter Eddie Hearn to make move into UFC after admitting his ‘eyes have been opened by Conor McGregor’

BOXING promoter Eddie Hearn is in discussions over a move into mixed martial arts after saying his "eyes have been opened" by Conor McGregor.

The promoter said he has held conversations with broadcasters to explore the possibility of entering the sport which spawned the immensely popular UFC franchise.

Hearn is keen to develop MMA in Britain after admitting his "eyes had been opened by Conor McGregor's popularity".

He told the : "It is true it's something I am considering. It is very early to say if I will get involved but I am looking at it.

"Obviously my company, Matchroom, has extensive and long experience in combat sports through boxing so it is an area we understand.

"At the moment I am talking to a few people and broadcasters to see what is what and whether it is something to get into."

UFC staged huge shows in London, Manchester and Belfast last year, and Hearn added: "Look how huge the UFC is in the US. Personally, I'm not sure if the UFC has fully satisfied the demand in the UK for mixed martial arts.

"For any sport to thrive it has to be driven by talent and personalities and I'm sure they exist.

"I feel we have a solid relationship with fight fans and while my heart and souls remains in boxing, I think those fans would be interested to take a look if we made a move.

"Like anyone, I've had my eyes opened to by Conor McGregor, his stature and his popularity. It is incredible. I think the appetite for MMA in general in Britain is very big right now.

"So it is something I want to take a good look at and we will see if anything comes from it."