Chris Eubank Sr. anticipates that his son Chris Eubank Jr.’s bout with Conor Benn will be cancelled, proposing that his cousin Harlem Eubank will step in as a substitute opponent.
The elder Eubank famously defeated Nigel Benn, Conor’s father, in a 1990 clash and then drew in their rematch three years later, marking a significant chapter in boxing history.
Over thirty years later, their sons are set to continue this family rivalry in a highly anticipated event scheduled for April 26 at Tottenham’s stadium.
Conor Benn is reportedly moving up two weight classes for this fight, and Eubank Sr. speculates that unforeseen circumstances will lead to a welterweight match between Benn and Harlem Eubank.
He stated, “Conor used to compete at 147lbs (welterweight, the same as Harlem Eubank), and I foresee that being his next fight.”
“My belief is that the fight with Jr. will not happen, and instead, a fight with his cousin will be arranged.”
Benn, aged 28, and Eubank Jr., 35, were originally slated to fight in October 2022. However, the fight was called off just days before the event due to Benn’s two failed drug tests.
Subsequently, Benn, an undefeated welterweight, faced suspension from UK Anti-Doping and had his British Boxing Board of Control license suspended.
He then continued his career in America, competing in two fights at the light-middleweight limit of 154lbs, in preparation for the Eubank Jr. fight.
Following a lengthy investigation, Benn’s UKAD ban has been lifted, clearing the path for him to fight again in the UK.
Meanwhile, Eubank Jr.’s cousin Harlem Eubank, 31, extended his undefeated record to 21-0 with a victory over Tyrone McKenna and subsequently challenged Benn to a fight.
He declared, “I want Conor Benn next. My fighting weight is 147lbs, which is also his natural weight class.”
“Chris will defeat him, and then I want to be his next opponent. I am aiming for world championships.”
