Harlem Eubank has stated that the upcoming fight between his cousin, Chris Eubank Jr., and Conor Benn is significantly unbalanced. He even expressed his own interest in fighting Conor Benn.
Harlem Eubank, an undefeated welterweight boxer from Brighton, was initially scheduled to participate in the undercard when the highly anticipated match was first announced in October 2022.
However, the fight was abruptly canceled just days before it was supposed to happen because it was revealed that Benn had failed two drug tests.
Now, three years later, the fight has been rescheduled for April 26 at Tottenham’s stadium, and it has become even more highly anticipated.
Benn has secured two victories in comeback fights at the light-middleweight limit of 154lbs. Despite these wins, Harlem Eubank insists that nothing can adequately prepare Benn for the challenge that Chris Eubank Jr. presents.
Speaking to SunSport, Harlem Eubank said, “I think it’s obvious. Conor hasn’t faced anyone at that level, especially not in that weight class.”
He continued, “You can talk about knockouts at 154lbs, but fighting is different, and I think that’s already becoming apparent.”
“So, it’s clearly an uneven match. It’s a ‘fantasy fight’ because of the famous names involved, but the weight difference and skill levels are not comparable.”
Conor Benn previously tested positive for clomiphene, a banned substance known to increase testosterone levels.
However, Benn successfully contested his drug case, and his UK Anti-Doping ban was recently lifted, which now allows him to fight again in the UK.
Despite the fight being rescheduled, Harlem Eubank remains skeptical that it will actually happen.
He stated, “There’s been a lot of controversy surrounding this fight over the past three years.”
“I was supposed to be on the undercard for the original fight. It was a long and drawn-out situation, even in terms of media coverage, with many uncertain aspects.”
“I’m still not fully convinced it will happen—even though it’s scheduled—until they are actually in the ring. “
“I won’t believe it until they are both in the ring and the fight begins because last time, it was already fight week, just three days away, when Benn failed his drug test.”
“So, yes, I’ll believe it when they’re in the ring and the bell rings.”
Harlem Eubank, with a record of 20-0, is preparing for his own fight on Friday in Brighton against Tyrone McKenna from Northern Ireland.
His uncle, the legendary Chris Eubank Sr., is actively mentoring his nephew, providing guidance and support.
Harlem, 31, mentioned, “He’s in excellent spirits and constantly shares valuable insights with me, which I intend to use as I develop and improve as a fighter.”
“He has greatly guided me in this sport and has been a fantastic role model. “
“I’m excited to continue benefiting from the wisdom he has instilled in me.”
“I hope to make him proud when I compete and deliver a strong performance.”
Harlem was just a baby when his uncle Chris famously drew with Nigel Benn in 1993, three years after Chris’s victory in their first brutal fight.
Chris Eubank Jr. has openly spoken about a recent distance from his father, despite consistently expressing love and admiration for him.
It remains uncertain whether Chris Eubank Sr. will be in his son’s corner for the fight against Conor Benn, but Harlem Eubank will be there to support his cousin.
Harlem said, “It’s going to be a historic event. Benn versus Eubank is the kind of fight people talk about for decades.”
“It will be massive, and I expect to feel that sense of pride and rivalry on the night. And historically, we Eubanks have always been victorious, and I expect this time will be no different.”
Conor Benn, undefeated in 23 fights, confidently claims he will knock out Eubank before returning to welterweight to pursue a world title.
Harlem Eubank, who also competes at welterweight, is interested in facing Benn himself.
He grinned and said, “He says he’s still at 147lbs. So, if he’s looking to fight a competitor—which I’m not sure he is—I’m at 147lbs and ready to take him on.”
