The British boxing world is holding its breath as the explosive rematch between Chris Eubank Jr and Conor Benn faces an unexpected threat - not from either fighter, but from boxing legend Chris Eubank Sr himself.
In a dramatic twist that's sending shockwaves through the sport, Eubank Sr has declared he may boycott his son's highly anticipated September showdown, revealing deep-seated concerns that extend far beyond typical pre-fight nerves.
The Weight of History
This potential family rift harks back to the tragic 1991 bout where Eubank Sr fought Michael Watson, leaving Watson with life-changing injuries. That fateful night continues to haunt the veteran boxer, particularly when it comes to watching his own son in the ring.
"I don't know if I can be there," Eubank Sr confessed to The Independent, his voice heavy with the weight of memory. "Watching my son fight is torture. The Watson fight took so much out of me - I can't watch people I care about get hurt."
A Father's Protective Instinct
The concerns aren't merely psychological. Eubank Sr has been vocal about the physical dangers his son faces, particularly regarding weight management. He famously intervened in their originally scheduled 2022 bout, forcing a higher weight limit to protect his son's health.
Now, with the rematch confirmed for September at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, those protective instincts are kicking in again. "I have to look out for my son," he stated firmly, underscoring the difficult balance between professional respect and paternal concern.
More Than Just Boxing
This potential boycott represents more than just a family dispute - it highlights the very real safety concerns in professional boxing. Eubank Sr's stance serves as a powerful reminder of the sport's inherent dangers, coming from someone who has experienced both its glory and its tragedy.
The boxing community now watches and waits to see if one of Britain's most iconic boxing figures will actually miss one of the year's biggest fights, making this perhaps the most personal and emotionally charged build-up to a major bout in recent memory.
