Big time boxing is back at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium this weekend, and, although the undercard features some fan favorites, it’s all about the main event. It’s been almost 1000 days since the original Chris Eubank Jr and Conor Benn fight was postponed at the last minute due to Benn’s drug infringement, but on Saturday, we will finally find out who wins for family legacy.
Scheduled for April 26, 2025, the highly anticipated bout will see Eubank Jr, 35, and Benn, 28, finally settle their score in what promises to be an emotionally charged clash. The fight was initially set for 2022 but was canceled after Benn tested positive for the banned substance clomifene. With Benn’s suspension lifted last year, the stage is now set for a showdown that has been brewing for over two years.
As the fight day approaches, anticipation is at an all-time high. Eubank Jr’s bold fashion choice has also garnered attention; he will wear a custom-made jacket stitched with the actual blood of his former opponent Liam Smith. This striking garment, which took over six months to create, features panels made from the blood-stained ring canvas used during Eubank's rematch with Smith in September 2023, where Eubank achieved a tenth-round knockout victory.
The jacket showcases a Union Jack patch alongside the date of Eubank's win, '02.09.2023', and on the back, the oversized initials 'NG' stand for 'Next Gen', Eubank Jr's long-time moniker. Beneath these initials, the phrase 'It's In Your Blood' serves as a poignant reminder of the legacy that Eubank Jr and Benn share, rooted in the fierce rivalry between their fathers, Chris Eubank Sr and Nigel Benn.
Underneath the main event, a stacked undercard will feature several intriguing matchups. The night kicks off at 7 PM BST with Anthony Yarde taking on Lyndon Arthur for the third time. Yarde, who previously lost to Arthur by split decision but later knocked him out in their rematch, is predicted to win again, this time by stoppage in rounds 7-12.
At 8 PM, Viddal Riley and Cheavon Clarke will face off in what is anticipated to be a closely contested bout, with predictions leaning towards a draw due to both fighters' relative inexperience and contrasting styles. Following that, Chris Billam-Smith will battle Brandon Glanton, with Billam-Smith expected to secure a decision victory.
Then at 9 PM, Liam Smith will return to the ring against Aaron McKenna, looking to bounce back after his loss to Eubank Jr. last year. Smith is favored to win this matchup, with predictions suggesting a stoppage in rounds 9-10.
As for the main event, the weight limit for the Eubank Jr vs. Benn fight will be set at 160 pounds, with a rehydration clause in place to prevent either fighter from gaining excessive weight after the weigh-in. Eubank Jr has historically fought at a higher weight class, while Benn has only competed at a maximum of 153.5 pounds.
In terms of fighting styles, Eubank Jr is known for his power and technical skill, boasting a KO ratio of 73%. He has rebounded from a tough loss to Liam Smith in 2023, where he was stopped in four rounds, by avenging that defeat later that year with a decisive knockout. On the other hand, Benn, who has faced significant scrutiny and setbacks due to his previous doping allegations, has only had two fights since his suspension, winning both against lesser-known opponents.
The stakes are high as both fighters look to solidify their legacies. Eubank Jr expressed confidence in his ability to dominate the fight, stating, "I think Eubank will be too big, too strong, and too savvy." Meanwhile, Benn's aggressive style and speed could pose a significant threat early on, making him a dangerous opponent in the first few rounds.
As fight night approaches, the atmosphere is electric. The rivalry between Eubank Jr and Benn is not just about personal pride but also about the legacy of their families, making this bout one of the most anticipated events in recent British boxing history. With both fighters eager to prove themselves and settle old scores, fans are in for a thrilling night of boxing.
Expectations are soaring, and the boxing community is buzzing with excitement as the countdown continues to this monumental clash. Will Eubank Jr's experience and size give him the edge, or will Benn's youthful aggression and speed carry the day? The answers will unfold in the ring this Saturday, and fans are eagerly awaiting what promises to be a historic showdown.
