Chris Eubank Says He’ll Have No Problems Dealing with Conor Benn
The historic Eubank – Benn British rivalry kicks up on October 8 at the O2 Arena in London, England when Chris Eubank Jr (33-2, 23 KOs) squares off against Conor Benn (20-0, 13 KOs) in a twelve-round middleweight contest.
A subplot has been the issue of weight. Benn regularly competes at 147. Eubank Jr has fought at 160 and 168 for his entire career. But for this contest, the two agreed to fight each other at a catchweight of 157.
Speaking to UK media source iFL TV, Eubank Jr was asked if he has any concerns about the catchweight. While eating a bucket of KFC on a cheat day, the self-assured 32-year-old did not see an issue.
NOT A PROBLEM
“So many people are focusing on the weight […] It’s not an issue. I’m gonna make the weight. I’m not gonna be dead. I’m not gonna have no energy on the night. I’m gonna get in there and have fun.”
Scarfing down fried chicken may have been a cheat day meal. But eating fried chicken in front of the camera was an intentional move. Many fans and pundits openly wonder how much getting down to 157 will affect Eubank. In his estimation, he doesn’t need to be at his best to defeat Benn, and being 100 percent will not be required to take care of business.
NOT A FULL STRENGTH?
“Sixty percent is what I’ll be on the night and sixty percent will be enough to crush this man over . . . I don’t know, however many rounds I decide to go.”
Eubank has gone to war with former super middleweight champions George Groves and James DeGale. He’s also been in the ring with two-division champ Billy Joe Saunders. In his mind, that pedigree outweighs anything Benn has done so far. The naturally bigger and stronger man, Eubank says Benn must earn his respect. If not, he’s taking his rival out quick, fast, and in a hurry.
Can a Eubank not at his physical best have enough to take out the smaller, yet highly motivated Benn, who is fighting for family pride? We will all find out on October 8 in what should be quite a fascinating contest.
By: Michael Wilson Jr.
