The highly anticipated boxing rematch between Chris Eubank Jr and Conor Benn hangs precariously in the balance. As the clock ticks towards a potential September showdown, negotiations have entered a critical phase, prompting promoter Eddie Hearn to explore alternative avenues for Benn.
A Legacy Rekindled, A First Encounter Decided
The initial clash between Chris Eubank Jr and Conor Benn was more than just a fight; it was a revival of one of British boxing`s most storied rivalries, echoing the legendary bouts of their fathers. Held at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, the first encounter in April culminated in a unanimous decision victory for Eubank Jr, with all three judges scoring the contest 116-112. It was a compelling 12-round affair, characterized by back-and-forth action that captivated audiences.
The Persistent Weight Conundrum
Central to the ongoing negotiations, and indeed to the very feasibility of a second fight, is the issue of weight. While the British Boxing Board of Control (BBBofC) has indicated no objection to the rematch taking place at 160lbs (middleweight), Eubank Jr`s past struggles with making weight are well-documented. Prior to their first bout, Eubank Jr famously appeared to endure significant hardship to meet the middleweight limit. Post-fight, it was revealed he required hospitalization due to severe dehydration—a stark reminder of the physiological tolls of professional boxing.
“Making weight is a science, not a casual hobby. One might even argue that utilizing a sauna, as Eubank Jr controversially depicted on social media before the last fight, represents a rather enthusiastic, albeit perhaps not entirely judicious, approach to fluid regulation. The resulting £10,000 fine for `misuse of social media` from the BBBofC served as a rather expensive reminder that even in the digital age, a professional decorum is expected, especially when illustrating potentially questionable pre-fight practices.”
This history adds a layer of complexity to the 160lb agreement. For a September 20 date, both fighters ideally require a full eight weeks of preparation, allowing ample time for a controlled and professional weight cut. Any deviation or public spectacle surrounding the weigh-in would undoubtedly reignite concerns.
Benn`s Pursuit and Hearn`s Strategic Playbook
For Conor Benn, the Eubank rematch remains the preferred option. The narrative, the history, and the sheer magnitude of the event are undeniably appealing. However, boxing is a business, and promoter Eddie Hearn is not one to let opportunities dissipate. With the Eubank negotiations stalling, Hearn has made it clear that he is prepared to pivot, exploring a variety of other “intriguing options” for Benn in the 147lb welterweight division. One notable mention includes a potential future clash with Shakur Stevenson, hinted at by a public handshake during a New York chat show appearance—a modern-day gesture of intent perhaps more binding than some contractual agreements.
This strategic move by Hearn serves multiple purposes: it applies pressure to the Eubank camp to finalize terms, ensures Benn remains active and relevant, and underscores the depth of the talent pool available for compelling matchups outside of the Eubank rivalry.
The Clock Ticks: A Defining Period for Both Fighters
With September looming, the coming days are pivotal. Should the Eubank Jr vs Benn rematch fail to materialize this week, the boxing landscape for both athletes could shift dramatically. For Eubank Jr, a failure to secure the rematch might open doors to other high-profile fights, but it would also leave the narrative of a settled rivalry somewhat incomplete. For Benn, alternative fights, while perhaps lacking the ancestral gravitas of the Eubank showdown, could offer fresh challenges and new pathways to championship contention.
Ultimately, the saga of Eubank Jr vs Benn 2 is a microcosm of professional boxing: a blend of athletic ambition, shrewd business negotiations, and the ever-present, often unforgiving, challenge of making weight. The question remains: will the sons of legends once again meet in the ring, or will their paths diverge, leaving fans to ponder what might have been?
Murray Blackwood