AN unprecedented cross-generational trilogy bout steeped in hatred and history, Conor Benn and Chris Eubank Jr’s upcoming grudge match is sure to captivate the nation, and become arguably the most talked about domestic dustup in recent memory, when they collide in four weeks’ time.
Yet, with Benn, 23-0 (14 KOs), being forced to jump up two divisions above his supposed optimal weight, preparation will surely be key for who many deem to be the underdog.
His trainer, Tony Sims, has now revealed the sparring partners that he has planned for Benn during the build-up.
Nigel Benn famously went toe-to-toe with Chris Eubank Sr on two occasions during the 90’s, losing his WBO middleweight title to his polarising dance partner before appearing to win their rematch three years later, only for the judges to controversially rule the scrap a split-draw.
Finally, after Conor Benn’s failed drug tests saw his meeting with Eubank Jr, 34-3 (25 KOs), get cancelled back in 2022, ‘The Destroyer’ gets the opportunity to avenge the shortcomings of his fan-favourite father in what will be a middleweight debut for the 28-year-old.
Despite a rehydration clause being added to the fight contract, it is expected that Eubank Jr will retain a substantial physical advantage come fight night.
The theme of fighting larger opponents was clear in Sims’ sparring selection, with the coach telling Boxing News’ Andi Purewal that Benn is preparing for the contest by sparring the reigning British middleweight champion, as well as two super-middleweights.
“We’ve had great sparring for the last two weeks,” said Sims. “Denzel Bentley has been out here, so that has been brilliant work.
“Then I’ve got a young kid in my ranks named Ramtin Musah. He’s coming out today and he is going to do a week here.
“Then we have got Bruno Surace, who is fighting [Jaime] Munguia in the return. He is coming out for two weeks. Then Denzel is coming out again and doing the last week, so we are all sorted for quality sparring.”
Benn will take on Eubank Jr on Saturday, April 26 at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London, topping a bill that features a host of British talent.
