Eddie Hearn labels Chris Eubank Jr v Conor Benn a 'modern day classic'

The world of boxing was treated to a phenomenal spectacle in the form of Chris Eubank Jr v Conor Benn on 26th April, arguably exceeding the high expectations set before the bout.

While many expected Eubank Jr v Benn to prove a lively contest, simply down to the pure hatred displayed in the build-up, very few expected the 12 round war to impress quite as much as it did.

A family trilogy decades in the making, Chris Eubank Sr sent the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium into raptures when unexpectedly attending the fight alongside Jr, admittedly proving a significant boost for him as he triumphed via unanimous decision.

Conor Benn by no means disgraced himself however. Instead, quite the opposite.

With Eubank Jr having to lose a significant amount of weight and Benn jumping up two divisions, questions were mooted as to whether Jr would bully Benn.

Despite suffering defeat, Benn gave as good as he got and there was an overarching feeling that the three 116-12 scorecards were wide off the mark.

Conor Benn’s promoter and CEO of Matchroom Boxing Eddie Hearn seemed in disbelief even days after the fight when speaking to IFL TV.

He said: “I think it’ll take a long time to digest something like that. It was just the most dramatic, incredible night, but build-up, obviously everything that happened.

“They just went in carrying nothing on their shoulders, belts or the ‘if I lose’ and they just had it.

“It was so unbelievable to watch. Never seen more guts from two fighters in my life. They both deserve a huge amount of credit because it takes two to tango.

They gave us a modern day classic. I don’t think that fight will ever be forgotten.

“It was better than Eubank (Sr) v (Nigel) Benn one, it was definitely better than Eubank v Benn two. It was everything.”

Despite representing Benn, Hearn showed admiration for both fighters, going as far to suggest it bettered both bouts between their fathers.

Chris Eubank Sr and Nigel Benn fought twice, with Eubank winning the first time round and a split decision draw the outcome the second time round.

Should Eubank Jr and Benn meet in the ring again, is a draw inevitable?

Ellis Statham

• Chris Eubank Jr v Conor Benn
• Chris Eubank Jr
• Matchroom
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