Riyadh Presser: Benn-Eubank Jr Tensions Escalate, Fight Still On?
The build-up to the highly anticipated rematch between Conor Benn and Chris Eubank Jr. has taken a dramatic turn, with a fiery press conference in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, leaving fans wondering if the fight will even happen.
The presser, held on August 30, 2023, was supposed to be a promotional event for the fight, scheduled for October 8th. However, things quickly turned hostile as both fighters, along with their teams, traded barbs and accusations. The air was thick with tension, and it seemed like any moment a physical altercation could break out.
What sparked the fireworks?
The animosity between the two stems from their first fight in October 2022. Benn was victorious via stoppage in the fourth round, but the fight was later overturned after Benn tested positive for a banned substance. This sparked a legal battle, with Eubank Jr. claiming he was cheated out of a win.
At the Riyadh presser, Eubank Jr. continued to press the issue, repeatedly calling Benn a "cheat" and questioning his integrity. Benn, in turn, accused Eubank Jr. of trying to sabotage his career and of using the failed drug test as a way to avoid the rematch.
The "no rematch" clause
Adding fuel to the fire was the revelation that the rematch contract included a clause stating that if Benn tested positive for any banned substances, the fight would be canceled and Eubank Jr. would receive a significant financial payout. Eubank Jr.'s team has accused Benn of deliberately trying to get caught, using this clause as a way to secure a payout for himself.
So, is the fight actually happening?
The situation remains incredibly unclear. While both fighters are still claiming to be prepared for the rematch, the animosity and accusations make it seem increasingly unlikely. The contract clause and the continued accusations of cheating are major roadblocks, and it's hard to see how the fight can proceed without some major compromises or concessions.
The coming days will be crucial in determining the fate of the Benn-Eubank Jr. rematch. Will the fighters and their teams be able to put their differences aside for the sake of the fight, or will this bitter feud ultimately lead to its cancellation?
