Why Eubank Jr Benn might NOT be the fight we see next | Boxing News
There’s been so much talk both about and between Chris Eubank Jr. and Conor Benn, percentages, interests, other routes and ultimately IF we’ll get to see it. However, several factors suggest that it might not materialize in the near future.
The rivalry between Chris Eubank Jr. and Conor Benn is deeply rooted in British boxing history. Their fathers, Chris Eubank Sr. and Nigel Benn, engaged in two memorable fights in the early 1990s, creating a legacy that their sons seemed poised to continue. A fight between Eubank Jr. and Benn was scheduled for October 2022 at a catchweight of 157 pounds, aiming to rekindle the historic rivalry. However, the bout was canceled after Benn tested positive for a banned substance, leading to a suspension and casting doubt on whether the matchup would happen at all. 
Conor Benn’s career faced a significant setback due to the allegations that ensued. He failed two drug tests in that year, testing positive for clomifene, a banned substance. This led to the cancellation of his fight with Eubank Jr. and a provisional suspension. Benn has consistently denied intentional doping, attributing the positive results to contamination. In November 2024, the National Anti-Doping Panel (NADP) lifted Benn’s suspension, citing insufficient evidence to prove a violation of anti-doping rules.
Chris Eubank Jr. on the other hand has expressed skepticism about fighting Conor Benn, citing concerns over Benn’s credibility following the doping scandal. In interviews, Eubank Jr. has stated that Benn’s actions have tarnished his reputation, making a potential fight less appealing. Eubank Jr. has emphasized the importance of integrity in the sport and suggested that Benn needs to rebuild his standing before a matchup can be considered. Since then however, he reunited face to face with Benn in Saudi Arabia’s ‘Riyadh Season’ fixture last year and immediately the fuse was reignited.
Both fighters are exploring alternative paths in their careers – just in case. Conor Benn is reportedly in negotiations for a world title fight against WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios. This potential matchup indicates Benn’s desire to move forward and achieve success in the welterweight division. On the other hand, Chris Eubank Jr. has been focusing on his career in the middleweight division, seeking opportunities that align with his goals and maintain his professional trajectory. Canelo was mentioned briefly, Erislandy Lara, old but still active, has been mentioned – Jnr’s former promoter Kalle Sauerland even teased Kell Brook and his former Wasserman stablemate Josh Kelly.
According to Chat GPT – despite the lifting of his suspension, Conor Benn faces regulatory hurdles before he can fight in the UK again. He needs to obtain a new license from the British Boxing Board of Control (BBBofC) or secure approval to fight under a foreign license. Additionally, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) retains the right to appeal the NADP’s decision, which could further delay Benn’s return to the ring. These uncertainties complicate the scheduling of a fight with Eubank Jr., who may prefer opponents without such regulatory complications. 
The question is whether the doping scandal has affected public perception of Conor Benn, potentially impacting the marketability of a fight with Chris Eubank Jr. Boxing fans and stakeholders may question the legitimacy and fairness of a matchup involving a fighter recently cleared of doping allegations. Eubank Jr., conscious of his brand and legacy, might be hesitant to engage in a bout that could attract negative attention or skepticism from the boxing community. It’s unlikely. Boxing fans love a tear up and a narrative, the British in particular love a home rivalry and broadcasters love sellability. Surnames, scandal, legacies, rivalries – both fighters having questionable in-ring records, this fight has it all.
Time is of the essence though, and the timing here is playing a crucial role. Both Eubank Jr. and Benn are at pivotal points in their careers, seeking opportunities that will elevate their standings and lead to championship titles. Aligning their schedules, weight classes, and career goals presents logistical challenges. Eubank Jr. may prioritize fights that offer immediate title contention or higher financial rewards, while Benn focuses on reestablishing his career post-hiatus.
While a fight between Chris Eubank Jr. and Conor Benn carries historical significance and fan interest, several factors make it unlikely in the immediate future. Benn’s recent doping controversy, regulatory challenges, and the fighters’ divergent career paths contribute to the uncertainty surrounding this matchup. Both athletes are pursuing alternative opportunities that align with their current professional objectives, making a near-term bout between them challenging.
With Riyadh Season, Turki Alalshikh and the boxing world though, don’t rule anything out. Even the fact key promoter Frank Warren has allegedly begun legal action over defamatory comments made by Eubank Jr might not prove a hurdle too high, as it wasn’t that long ago neither he nor Eddie Hearn could be in the same room together – now they’re best mates!