Chris Eubank Jr. vs. Conor Benn Rematch Announcement
Chris Eubank Jr. is set to face Conor Benn for a rematch on September 20 in London. Promoter Eddie Hearn has reaffirmed that there will be no alteration to the weight requirements previously established for their first encounter. The upcoming fight will maintain the middleweight limit of 160 pounds with a rehydration clause, as agreed upon in their initial two-fight contract, despite no formal request from Eubank’s team for revision of terms.
First Match Recap
The first matchup took place earlier this year at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, where Eubank claimed victory via unanimous decision, marking a significant moment in the ongoing rivalry originally fueled by the legendary bouts between their fathers.
Promoter’s Insights
Hearn, speaking to BBC Sport, clarified that discussions concerning changing the fight’s conditions likely wouldn’t take place. “Firstly, Team Eubank wouldn’t approach me because the contract is with Saudi Arabia, but the issue is that we have a signed contract specifying identical terms to the first fight,” he stated emphatically.
He added that Eubank’s team seems to have accepted the agreement from their prior encounter, suggesting confidence in their current strategy.
Conor Benn’s Determination
Conor Benn has vocally expressed his eagerness for this rematch, stemming from his desire to prove he can clinch a victory this time around. Hearn noted that Benn is more committed than ever, perceiving this opportunity as a chance for redemption.
“He was physically outmatched last time but made it competitive through his determination and skill,” he said.
Weight Management Concerns
Concerns surfaced regarding Eubank’s weight management leading up to their first bout, where he faced fines for not meeting the required weight early in fight week. The British Boxing Board of Control is now set to investigate reports that Eubank might have misused a sauna for weight loss, against boxing regulations. Hearn remarked, however, that debates about Eubank’s weight cutting have been exaggerated.
“He weighed in fully clothed and was actually a few pounds under the limit, so it wasn’t a major issue,” he clarified.
Unexpected Announcement
Interestingly, the announcement for the rematch caught many off guard, including Eubank, when Turki Alalshikh, the head of Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority, disclosed it on social media without previous notice to either camp. Hearn noted that despite initial confusion, he believes the financial incentives are solid enough to guarantee the fight proceeds without a hitch.
“The only reason fights fall through is financial, but the money here is significant,” he asserted, confident that both fighters will proceed with the match as planned.
Anticipation for the Rematch
As anticipation builds for the rematch, the boxing world is watching closely, particularly considering the involvement of Eubank’s father, Chris Sr., in the promotional aspects, which Hearn hints could elevate the event further.
“The dynamics could shift this time around with their fathers participating in the promotion from the start,” he remarked, alluding to the historical weight of their familial legacies in the sport.
Fans are eager to see if the sequel to their high-drama first encounter will unfold as compellingly, with the backdrop of past controversies, including failed doping tests and high-stakes penalties, contributing to the fevered excitement surrounding the upcoming bout.
