As his son prepares for one of the biggest fights of his career, Chris Eubank Sr has dismissed claims that he was paid to attend Chris Eubank Jr’s first bout against Conor Benn in April.
During the build-up to that fight, there appeared to be distance between father and son, prompting speculation that Sr would not be at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium to support a son walking the same path he once did by facing a Benn. However, when a car arrived at the venue on fight day, both Eubanks stepped out to a huge reception from fans watching on the big screens.
Rumours have since circulated that the former two-weight world champion accepted a fee to show up. Speaking at yesterday’s final press conference for Eubank Jr–Benn II, the 59-year-old addressed the claims – including one he says originated from Conor Benn’s father and his own greatest rival, Nigel Benn.
“Whoever told Nigel that I was paid whatever sum of money, they lied to you. You spouting what they told you makes you a liar. So expose who told you that lie in order to clean your name. Otherwise, who in the future is going to believe you on anything you say?
“I’m not easily angered, Nigel. And I keep no record of wrongs. You can’t pay me anything. I’m here for heart, love.”
The two old rivals then squared up for the cameras, rekindling a feud that defined a generation, while their sons took part in a far more serious face-off ahead of another chapter in one of British boxing’s most storied family rivalries.
