Chris Eubank Sr has strongly refuted claims that he received payment to attend his son Chris Eubank Jr’s first fight against Conor Benn in April, as the boxing world gears up for the highly anticipated rematch at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. The bout mirrors the history of the two families, as both sets of fathers faced off in the 1990s.
The Eubanks had been estranged for several years before emerging together on the night of Eubank Jr’s first fight against Benn, a moment that stunned fans and the media alike.
“They are lying to you. If you are spouting what they told you, then they are a liar,” said Eubank Sr. “I speak and I want truth, nothing but. That’s a true entertainer.”
Claims circulating in recent weeks suggested that Eubank Sr was financially incentivized to be ringside in April. He strongly denied this, emphasizing that his presence is driven by love and support for his son rather than money.
“In regards to the love of a son, if a father takes money, nothing wrong with that. If a father doesn’t take money, study that. I am here for heart and love,” he added.
Eubank Jr Speaks Out Against Rumours
Chris Eubank Jr confirmed in a recent BBC film that his father would be present for the rematch, though he was not expected at the news conference. He only learned a few hours in advance that his father would be attending, making the moment even more meaningful.
“There is something I need to address; Conor, Eddie and Nigel over the last few months have been making accusations and claims that my father was paid to come to the fight,” Eubank Jr said. “It was bare-faced lies. It’s extremely disrespectful to my father and myself.”
News Conference Tensions and Eddie Hearn’s Role
The news conference took place at London’s Pelligon, a venue that often hosts weddings but on Thursday was dominated by verbal sparring between the Eubanks and the Benn camp. Eubank Jr repeatedly interrupted promoter Eddie Hearn, who cleverly used homemade cue cards and even held one reading “fake news” in response to accusations about event logistics.
Despite the theatrical antics, Benn and his father Nigel Benn remained calm. Nigel Benn expressed confidence in Conor’s ability to avenge his first defeat.
“His team behind him is relaxed. No stress. I know we’re going to get a victory, I’m 100% sure of that,” Nigel said.
Benn, 29, reiterated that he is returning to his preferred welterweight division and is eyeing future world title opportunities.
Weight Discrepancy Debate Reignites
During the conference, the topic of weight discrepancies resurfaced. Benn had previously moved up two divisions from welterweight, while Eubank Jr agreed to a rehydration clause. The exchange turned heated as Benn challenged his opponent on his weight gain after the weigh-in.
“You were three pounds under the rehydration limit. You’re getting paid an absolute fortune to fight a welterweight. Stop begging for sympathy,” Benn said.
Eubank Jr countered:
“I am the A side and if there’s a rehydration clause I’m going to deal with it — and I don’t need to answer your questions. There is no sympathy.”
Family, Legacy, and the Rematch
The rematch between Eubank Jr and Benn promises not only high-stakes action in the ring but also a continuation of the generational legacy that both families represent. From the dramatic reunion of the Eubanks to the intense verbal exchanges at the press conference, the story of the bout extends beyond sport, capturing the imagination of boxing fans worldwide.
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