Chris Eubank Jr has explained why he declined to shake Conor Benn`s hand following their intense boxing match.
The long-standing rivalry between the families was reignited in late April for a highly anticipated middleweight showdown.
Eubank emerged victorious after a memorable 12-round battle held at Tottenham`s stadium.
However, unlike the usual scene after major fights, the two fierce competitors did not embrace post-match.
Eubank, 35, disclosed that he still holds resentment towards Benn, 28, for failing a drug test in 2022, which caused the cancellation of their initial planned bout.
Speaking on Diary Of A CEO, he stated: “The fight ended, and I didn`t shake his hand, I didn`t congratulate him, I didn`t speak to him, I didn`t hug him.”
“That`s what most fighters, almost all fighters, do after a fight. And especially after a contest like that, you`d anticipate it.”
“I couldn`t bring myself to do it. I didn`t feel I could because, in my view, this guy is still a drug cheat.”
“He attempted to cheat in our original fight. He failed two drug tests and never admitted it.”
“He denied it repeatedly. No apologies, no admission, no taking responsibility.”
SunSport`s Verdict on Eubank Jr vs Benn
THIRTY-FIVE years of the Conor Benn and Chris Eubank Jr rivalry culminated in 36 minutes of intense fighting.
Despite the tremendous heart shown by both boxers, the display lacked significant technique or finesse.
After years of verbal jabs, mind games, and public antics, SunSport`s Wally Downes Jr provided his assessment of what should mark the conclusion to one of British boxing`s major feuds.
He argued the 12-round slugfest should not be repeated and the rivalry should now be considered settled.
“I cannot forgive that, I cannot respect that, I cannot shake his hand until there is some form of accountability. He isn`t going to provide it.”
Benn`s test revealed the presence of clomiphene, a prohibited substance known for boosting testosterone, although he maintained his innocence.
UK Anti-Doping initially imposed a provisional suspension, but Benn continued his career by fighting in America, securing two victories while the case remained unresolved.
Ultimately, UKAD discontinued the case against Benn, clearing the way for him to compete against Eubank in the UK.
The bout was scheduled at the 160lb middleweight limit, and Eubank narrowly missed the weight by just 0.05lb, resulting in a significant £375,000 fine.
Furthermore, his contract included a rehydration clause requiring him to weigh under 170lb on the morning of the fight.
Despite these challenges, Eubank secured a unanimous points victory but required hospitalisation for two days afterwards due to severe dehydration.
A rematch with Benn is already part of their initial contract, and Eubank is preparing for a second fight.
He commented: “It`s highly probable that the fight will occur again later this year.”
“I want what the supporters desire. If they want to see a rematch next, who am I to refuse?”
Oliver Croft