"Four more" - Eddie Hearn plots next wave of superstar rugby signings

After signing Henry Pollock and Finn Russell to his fast-growing Matchroom Talent Agency, the boxing supremo has made it clear: this is just the beginning.

Pollock, a 21-year-old England breakout star, became Hearn’s first rugby client.

The promoter has already labelled him a potential “superstar” who could “ignite the sport” and earn more off the pitch than on it.

Russell has since followed, buying into Hearn’s vision to grow rugby’s commercial appeal and global profile.

Behind the scenes, Barry Hearn has reinforced that the plan is aggressive expansion.

Multiple players are already showing interest, with more signings expected as Matchroom targets rugby’s untapped star power.

So if Hearn really wants to shake the sport, here are four names he should be chasing next.

A lesser-known but intriguing prospect, Caluori represents the kind of talent Hearn loves: raw, marketable, and on the rise.

While not yet a household name, players in this bracket offer huge upside if positioned correctly.

Hearn’s entire strategy revolves around spotting personalities early and building their commercial identity alongside their on-field growth.

If he can replicate what he sees in Pollock — charisma, edge, and narrative — Caluori could become a breakout figure under the Matchroom banner rather than just another squad player.

Few players in world rugby bring personality like Ellis Genge.

The England and Bristol Bears prop is outspoken, emotional, and unfiltered — exactly the type of figure who cuts through beyond traditional rugby audiences.

He’s already proven he can command headlines, speaking candidly about England’s struggles and the pressures of elite rugby.

For Hearn, Genge wouldn’t just be a signing — he’d be a storyteller’s dream, capable of driving media attention, debate, and crossover appeal in a way rugby rarely achieves.

One of the brightest stars in the women’s game, Ellie Kildunne offers something Hearn has always valued: elite talent combined with genuine star quality.

A standout for England, her pace, attacking flair and growing profile make her a prime candidate for mainstream exposure.

Hearn has spoken about rugby lacking visibility and storytelling — and investing in the women’s game could be a huge part of fixing that.

Kildunne has the ability to become not just a rugby name, but a recognisable sporting personality across wider audiences.

If Hearn wants a true statement signing, this is it.

Marcus Smith is already one of the most marketable players in world rugby — a Lions fly-half with flair, confidence and highlight-reel moments.

He fits perfectly into Hearn’s blueprint of building global stars, not just athletes.

With rugby still lagging behind other sports commercially, Smith represents the kind of crossover figure who could front campaigns, dominate social media, and bring new fans into the game.

Land him, and Hearn’s rugby revolution goes from ambition to reality.