Conor Benn has declared a dramatic shift in his mentality ahead of his highly anticipated rematch with Chris Eubank Jr tonight in London. The fighter insists the raw, emotional rage that defined their first encounter seven months ago has been replaced by a calculated, zen-like composure.
From Red Mist to Calculated Calm
Benn has openly admitted that he fought on pure emotion and a bitter temper during his first blockbuster clash with Eubank Jr, a fight he ultimately lost. He confessed that his mindset was solely focused on a violent, seek-and-destroy mission to obliterate his rival and settle their near three-year feud.
His expensive and protracted battle to clear his name after two failed drug tests had left him consumed with hatred, a state of mind that now leads him to question whether he was truly ready to step into the ring at all back then.
A New Tactical Focus for the Final Chapter
For the sequel, Benn promises a completely different approach. He stated, "I still don't like him, but I feel very differently now. I'm a very emotional guy and it's down to me to keep my emotions at bay which I have done, up to now." He observed that Eubank Jr's pre-fight antics seem like a desperate attempt to provoke him, a tactic that is no longer effective.
Benn emphasised that his training camp has been dedicated to religiously working on tactics. "I'm not going in there swinging this time," he asserted, contrasting his current strategy with his previous all-out aggressive style. He reflected that in the first fight, his desire to simply "hammer him" was so overwhelming that he couldn't even assess if he was winning rounds.
Healing and a Shot at Redemption
The fighter revealed the profound personal turmoil he was experiencing during their first bout. "I feel like I was still healing, I was still troubled, disturbed, restless and angry. I was bitter at life," Benn confessed. He added a poignant reflection: "My priority was getting back to fighting but just because I could get back to fighting doesn't mean I should have."
He also highlighted the immense pressure he was under, dealing with his return to fighting in the UK after a long absence, his first fight at middleweight, and only his second professional 12-round contest.
Tonight's rematch represents more than just personal redemption for Benn; it is the latest chapter in his family's 35-year conflict with the Eubanks. With his father having failed to beat Chris Eubank Sr in their two legendary fights three decades ago, Benn is now fighting to restore pride to the family name.
The Chris Eubank Jr. vs Conor Benn rematch takes place on Saturday, November 15, at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Fans can order the pay-per-view event on DAZN for £24.99 or watch it as part of a DAZN Ultimate subscription plan.
