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England rugby star Henry Pollock has joined Eddie Hearn's Matchroom Talent Agency, marking the multi-sport organisation's first venture into the sport. The 21-year-old Northampton Saints forward becomes part of the fledgling agency alongside MMA fighter Tom Aspinall, which Hearn established earlier this month.

Pollock's talent and charisma have rapidly made him one of English rugby's standout performers. He became the youngest ever British and Irish Lion last summer.

"I watched this kid and I immediately thought: superstar," said Hearn.

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"I honestly believe he can singlehandedly ignite this sport and I am delighted to welcome him to the Matchroom family."

Pollock will continue working with agency Stellar Rugby for certain business matters, while Matchroom is set to concentrate on developing his profile and commercial ventures, as reported by City AM.

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"I'm delighted to be joining forces with Eddie Hearn and Matchroom Talent Agency alongside Stellar Rugby at such an exciting stage in my career," said Pollock.

"Their experience and vision in the global sports market make them the perfect partners to help me grow both on and off the field, and I'm looking forward to what we can all achieve together."

Hearn unveiled Matchroom Talent Agency and the capture of UFC star Aspinall unexpectedly in early March, in a move interpreted by some as a counter to UFC chief Dana White luring Conor Benn away from Matchroom Boxing to his Zuffa promotion.

Matchroom has been instrumental in driving the expansion and achievements of darts and snooker, while its boxing roster, featuring fighters including Anthony Joshua, ranks amongst the sport's most prominent.

This follows Hearn taking to social media during the Six Nations Championship earlier this month to discuss rugby's unrealised commercial opportunities.

"I watched all three Six Nations matches and loved it all. When I was watching the England game, I only knew one player," he wrote.

"I hope those in charge can start to give these players and the sport the profile, storytelling and noise it deserves. Like boxing, tough people and sport built on discipline and respect – can and should be much bigger."

Hearn confirmed additional signings would follow Pollock's arrival,and said: "With Henry, alongside UFC Heavyweight Champion Tom Aspinall, we are building a team of All Stars – and we have many more top names still to bring in as our new Matchroom Talent Agency makes huge strides forward."