Chris Eubank Jr triumphed over Conor Benn in last night’s grudge match at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, securing a unanimous decision victory in a thrilling 12-round war.
Judges scored it 116-112, all in favour of Eubank Jr.
Drama
The fight delivered on drama.
Benn exploded out of the blocks, using his speed and precision to rattle Eubank Jr early on.
But as the rounds wore on, the natural size and power of Eubank Jr came to the fore. Dominating the later stages with his jab and heavy hands, he slowed Benn’s pace and dictated the action.
It wouldn’t be a big-draw fight without controversy over the scoring. Some called it closer than the cards suggested. That’s boxing.
Boxing’s integrity
But beyond the result, debates over weight disparities, fighter safety and the financial motivations behind such matchups reignited questions about boxing’s integrity.
For Eubank Jr, it was a career-defining night, paying homage to the historic rivalry between their fathers. Benn may have fallen short, but his heart and grit shone through, earning him respect.
Eddie Hearn, ever the salesman, paid respect to his man Benn – and, true to form, threw out the possibility of a rematch with Benn at 160lb.
Was it worth the risk?
Fans were entertained by two warriors both of whose banks accounts will benefit hugely from this spectacle, but should that be the main determining metric?
That debate is far from over.
