Boxer Conor Benn has launched a stinging critique of his rival Chris Eubank Jr, accusing him of harbouring a 'victim mentality' following the release of a concerning hospital video.
The Hospital Footage and Benn's Reaction
The controversy stems from a video Eubank Jr posted on social media last month, which showed the 36-year-old fighter lying motionless on a hospital bed, connected to medical machines and surrounded by staff. This footage emerged after his unanimous decision defeat to Benn in their highly-anticipated rematch at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in November.
The video prompted an outpouring of concern from boxing fans, with many urging the Brighton-born athlete to consider retirement. However, Benn, 29, has suggested darker motives behind the post. Speaking to the Mail, Benn urged the public to question why Eubank Jr shared the video, insinuating it was a play for public sympathy.
Benn's Accusations and Private Struggles
"I heard he had IBS throughout the last parts of training camp," Benn stated. "I heard it after the fight as well, or he's got a stomach cyst or whatever it is. Ultimately, I'm not really too concerned, to be honest. I know it's not a serious health condition. I think people need to look deeper into the reasons as to why it's posted. There's a certain pattern here of sympathy vote and a victim mentality."
Benn then contrasted this with his own approach to handling adversity, pointing out that he keeps his struggles private. He referenced the intense difficulty of making weight for his fight in Vegas, a moment he chose not to publicise. "You don't see pictures of me making 152 for my fight in Vegas and I'm on the floor in a blanket, struggling to make the weight," the former WBA Continental welterweight champion said.
He emphasised the inherent toughness of their profession: "Ultimately it's just part of the game. It's part of the sport we do. We're modern-day gladiators. You'll never hear me moan about anything." Benn revealed he fought through significant injuries in the past, including a torn tendon before a rematch with Cedrick Peynaud. "Torn tendon, asthma, all of it and I'm good. I'm not here for sympathy. You're in the wrong game if you want the sympathy of the public. No one cares."
Eubank Jr's Response and Future
When he originally shared the hospital video on platform X, Chris Eubank Jr addressed his followers directly. He explained, "I've been dealing with a lot of health issues over the last year and yeah it all finally caught up to me last month."
Crucially, he dismissed immediate retirement talks, stating, "I will not box again until I'm back to 100% and I don't know when that will be. But one thing's for certain. For the fans that have supported me through thick and thin, I will do everything in my power to make sure that one day, the old me makes a big comeback."
The public exchange has ignited debate within the boxing community, with fans divided on whether Eubank Jr's post was a genuine health update or a strategic narrative play following his high-profile loss to Benn.
