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Evening Standard
Evening Standard
Sport
Jonathan Gorrie

Conor Benn and Chris Eubank Jr set for London showdown with iconic British boxing rivalry rekindled

Conor Benn is unbeaten since turning professional in 2016

(Picture: Getty Images)

Conor Benn and Chris Eubank Jr will fight at London’s 02 Arena on Saturday October 8, almost exactly 30 years since their fathers battled through one of the most iconic rivalries in British boxing history.

A bout between the two has constantly been raised given the history between their fathers, although both fighters have previously played it down.

Now, however, it has been confirmed they will clash at a catchweight limit as one of the biggest rivalries British boxing has ever seen is rekindled.

Eubank Jr boasts a record of 32 wins and two losses since turning professional in 2011, while Benn is currently unbeaten having won 14 of his 21 fights via knockout.

While both have carved out careers of their own, it’s hard to ignore the looming spectre of their fathers.

Nigel Benn and Chris Eubank Sr met on two separate occasions in the 1990s, becoming household names in the process, with the latter winning the WBO middleweight title in 1990 before a split decision draw at Old Trafford three years later.

“I know his struggle. Living in the shadow of a legend and trying to break out of that shadow and make his own name," said Eubank Jr.

"In terms of anticipation, legacy and hype, it’s the biggest fight of my career."

Benn, meanwhile, said: “This fight is for the legacy and was an opportunity I felt I couldn’t pass up.

Chris Eubank Jr has a record of 32 wins and two losses (Getty Images)

"My team and I had other options on the table as I’m currently ranked top five with all governing bodies at welterweight and no doubt I’m looking for a world championship fight very soon, but this fight is embedded with so much history and I know it’s one the public really want to see.

Promoter Eddie Hearn admitted he “could not believe” the two were finally meeting.

"I can’t quite believe this is happening,” he said.

"Ever since they both turned professional, people talked about this moment."

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