In a thrilling showdown at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, Chris Eubank Jr. emerged victorious over Conor Benn, delivering a unanimous decision win that marked the end of a long-standing rivalry. The fight, held on April 26, 2025, drew an electrifying crowd of 65,000 spectators and was billed as one of the most significant non-heavyweight boxing events in the UK in over a decade.
All three judges scored the bout 116-112 in favor of Eubank, who showcased his experience and skill against the younger Benn, who suffered his first professional defeat. This match was not just a contest between two fighters; it was a clash that echoed the legendary battles between their fathers, Chris Eubank Sr. and Nigel Benn, who fought in the 1990s.
The anticipation for this fight was palpable, especially after their previous encounter was canceled in 2022 when Benn tested positive for traces of the fertility drug clomifene. The history between the two families added layers of intensity to an already heated rivalry, making this matchup a must-watch.
From the opening bell, both fighters came out swinging, with Benn initially taking a more aggressive approach. However, Eubank's superior technique and tactical acumen began to shine through as the rounds progressed. "I knew I was capable of that, I just needed someone to bring that out of me," Eubank remarked after the fight. He added, "The fact our fathers did it before brings out the soul in you." This sentiment resonated throughout the night, as the legacy of their fathers loomed large over the ring.
Despite Eubank's experience, he faced moments of adversity during the fight. Benn managed to land some significant punches, even wobbling Eubank on several occasions. However, his wild approach often left him open to counters, and Eubank capitalized on these opportunities, landing effective combinations that ultimately swayed the judges in his favor. "It was close; I thought I won. Maybe I stayed on the ropes for too long," Benn reflected post-fight, indicating he believed he could have done better.
The fight was not without its drama. Eubank suffered a cut over his right eye due to an accidental clash of heads in the ninth round, but he pressed on, showing remarkable resilience. In the final round, he dominated, nearly knocking Benn off his feet with a powerful left hook. The crowd erupted as Eubank poured on the pressure, leaving Benn visibly fatigued.
Adding to the drama, Eubank Jr. had failed to make weight for the bout, coming in at 0.05 pounds over the 160-pound limit, which resulted in a hefty $500,000 penalty. Despite this setback, Eubank's performance in the ring proved he was undeterred by the weight issues. After the fight, he was taken to the hospital for precautionary checks but expressed satisfaction with his performance, stating, "We upheld the family name -- onwards and upwards."
Promoter Eddie Hearn, who was ringside, shared his thoughts on the match, stating, "I couldn’t split them. I thought Benn was winning the fight and then lost the last two rounds. It was one of the most dramatic fights I’ve seen." Hearn's comments highlight the close nature of the contest, suggesting that a rematch could be in the cards. Indeed, a rematch clause is reportedly included in their fight contract, and the boxing community is buzzing with anticipation for a potential sequel.
For Benn, this loss comes after a long hiatus from the ring due to a ban following his positive drug tests. He had not fought in the UK for three years, and the homecoming was met with mixed reactions from fans, who booed his entrance while cheering for Eubank. Despite the setback, Benn remains optimistic about his future in boxing. "I believe I can go back down a weight and win a title," he said, hinting at a possible return to welterweight or junior middleweight.
The fight was not just a personal battle but also a significant event in the boxing calendar, with both fighters reportedly sharing an £18 million purse. The financial stakes, combined with the emotional weight of their family histories, made for a compelling narrative that captivated viewers.
As the dust settles on this monumental bout, Eubank Jr. solidifies his position in the boxing world, keeping his hopes alive for a future title shot against elite fighters like Saul "Canelo" Alvarez. Meanwhile, Benn's career, though momentarily derailed, has the potential for revival as he contemplates his next steps.
This fight has reignited interest in the Eubank-Benn rivalry, and with a rematch on the horizon, fans are eager to see how these two warriors will clash again in the ring. The legacy of their fathers continues to loom large, but now, it’s up to the next generation to carve out their own paths in the sport.
