Chris Eubank Sr denies payment claims regarding son’s fight
Chris Eubank Sr has firmly rejected claims that he received money to attend his son’s bout against Conor Benn, speaking on the Playbook Boxing podcast this week, reports BritPanorama.
The former world champion addressed allegations made by Nigel Benn during a TalkSport interview, stating he did not receive “a cent” for his attendance. Eubank Sr challenged Benn at a press conference, asserting, “Whoever told you these lies, they’ve made you now to be a liar.”
In his commentary on the fight, Eubank Sr provided a stark assessment of his son’s boxing future, declaring: “Junior is shot, he’s spent.” This statement reflects a broader concern over the physical and mental toll of the sport, as well as the intricacies of their father-son relationship.
Eubank Sr revealed the emotional strain of watching his son compete, describing the experience as deeply distressing. He noted, “It is traumatizing. When you have a son, you love him. I may not like some of his ways, but I love him.” Following the Benn contest, he remained at Junior’s hospital bedside throughout the night, indicating the gravity of the situation.
Despite their fractious relationship, Eubank Sr maintains unwavering devotion to his son. However, he lamented the breakdown of communication, suggesting that Junior believes he has nothing left to learn. “You cannot pour riches or wisdom into vessels which think they are full. He thinks he’s full. And what can I do?”
Eubank Sr also addressed his ongoing feud with Nigel Benn, saying, “Life is too short for you not to understand that this game you only win by using the prod, the shield, love, objectivity.” His comments suggest a desire for reconciliation amidst rivalry.
Reflecting on the sport’s risk, Eubank Sr acknowledged his concerns about his son’s continued involvement in boxing, responding simply: “Of course.” He highlighted the painful truth that offering guidance becomes futile when it goes unheeded.
He openly discussed boxing’s devastating health consequences, recalling his brother Simon, who died from frontal lobe dementia after a career marked by significant battles and losses. “This is what happens. Boxing kills you,” he stated bluntly, emphasising the gravity of the issue.
Eubank Sr expressed frustration that fighters continue to prioritise financial gain over their wellbeing, critiquing promoters who readily discard boxers who fail to perform. He concluded with a reflection on the worrying trend of intense bouts, stating, “They’re worrying me, of course. But what can I do? They don’t listen.”
The commentary from Eubank Sr paints a complex picture not just of personal relationships but of a sport grappling with its consequences on health and safety, as the line between ambition and wellbeing becomes increasingly blurred.
