Tension reached a boiling point at Thursday's press conference in London, dramatically overshadowing the build-up to the highly anticipated Conor Benn vs Chris Eubank Jr clash. The event took a shocking turn when veteran boxing legend Chris Eubank Sr required medical attention, prompting organisers to call an ambulance.
The incident occurred after a deeply personal and heated exchange between the two camps. Eubank Sr, a revered figure in British boxing, became visibly and audibly distressed while passionately pleading with his son, Chris Eubank Jr, to call off the fight, citing grave concerns for his health and safety.
A Father's Desperate Plea
Eubank Sr's anguish was palpable as he directly addressed his son on the dais. His fears are rooted in a tragic family history; he was in the corner of his brother, Simon, who died from a brain injury sustained in a 1991 fight. "This is not a game," he emotionally declared, his voice cracking. "You are my son. If you don't take this seriously, I cannot be there. I will not be there."
His distress escalated to a point where event promoter Eddie Hearn, alongside others, intervened. The conference was abruptly paused, and medical professionals were summoned to attend to the 57-year-old former world champion.
Hearn Defends the Fight's Integrity
Following the interruption, a composed Eddie Hearn returned to the stage to address the media. He firmly defended the fight, emphasising the extensive medical protocols and safeguards that have been put in place, including a mutually agreed 157lb catchweight and a rehydration clause.
"We have to trust the British Boxing Board of Control and the medical testing," Hearn stated. He acknowledged the emotional weight of Eubank Sr's words but insisted the event would proceed, stating, "This is a legitimate, sanctioned fight."
The alarming incident has cast a long shadow over the bout, transforming the narrative from a sporting contest into a deeply emotional and controversial familial drama, leaving many to question the fight's morality despite its official clearance.
