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Ricky Hatton’s bold prediction about the Chris Eubank vs. Conor Benn fight will blow your mind

Ricky Hatton’s bold prediction about the Chris Eubank vs. Conor Benn fight will blow your mind

The boxing world is set for an electrifying showdown as Chris Eubank Jr. and Conor Benn prepare to reignite a historic rivalry on April 26, 2025, at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London, England. This fight is more than just a clash between two talented fighters—it’s the continuation of a decades-long feud between the Eubank and Benn families, whose fathers fought in two legendary bouts in the 1990s.

Adding to the intrigue, boxing icon Ricky Hatton has weighed in with a surprising prediction that has fans and analysts talking. Could Benn pull off an upset, or will Eubank Jr.’s experience and skill prove too much?

This article breaks down everything you need to know about the upcoming fight, including fighter analysis, past controversies, fight predictions, and what’s at stake.

The History: Eubank vs. Benn – A Rivalry That Defined an Era

Before diving into the upcoming fight, it’s essential to understand the legacy that Chris Eubank Jr. and Conor Benn are carrying forward.

Their fathers, Chris Eubank Sr. and Nigel Benn, had one of the most famous rivalries in British boxing history.

  • First fight (1990): Chris Eubank Sr. defeated Nigel Benn via ninth-round TKO, claiming the WBO middleweight title.
  • Rematch (1993): The highly anticipated second bout ended in a split draw, leaving fans without a definitive winner.

These fights captivated boxing audiences, and now, three decades later, their sons are set to continue the family feud.

The Fighters: Tale of the Tape

Category Chris Eubank Jr. Conor Benn
Record 34-3 (25 KOs) 23-0 (14 KOs)
Age 35 28
Height 5 ft 11 in (180 cm) 5 ft 8 in (173 cm)
Reach 72 in (183 cm) 68 in (173 cm)
Stance Orthodox Orthodox
Weight Class Middleweight (160 lbs) Moving up from Welterweight (147 lbs)

image_67d91088b9329 Ricky Hatton’s bold prediction about the Chris Eubank vs. Conor Benn fight will blow your mind

Chris Eubank Jr.: Strengths, Weaknesses, and Fight Strategy

Strengths

  • Defensive Mastery: Eubank Jr. absorbs only 4.2 power punches per round, a stat rivaled by the likes of Shakur Stevenson. His ability to slip punches and counter makes him a difficult target.
  • Size and Experience: Having fought at middleweight and super middleweight for most of his career, he has a natural size advantage over Benn.
  • Durability: Despite facing top-tier opponents, he has never been knocked out in a professional bout.

Weaknesses

  • Lack of Knockout Power: While he has an impressive KO record, many of his recent fights have gone the distance.
  • Inconsistency: While brilliant on some nights, he has also delivered underwhelming performances, making it hard to predict which version of Eubank Jr. will show up.

Keys to Victory

  • Use Reach and Jab: Keep Benn at a distance and dictate the pace of the fight.
  • Capitalize on Weight Advantage: Wear Benn down in later rounds by utilizing his physicality.
  • Counterpunching: Exploit Benn’s aggressive style with well-timed counters.

Conor Benn: Strengths, Weaknesses, and Fight Strategy

Strengths

  • Explosive Power: Benn’s aggressive, come-forward style has led to 14 knockout victories in 23 fights.
  • High Work Rate: He throws a high volume of punches, which can overwhelm opponents who struggle with pressure fighters.
  • Confidence and Momentum: Despite past controversies, Benn remains undefeated and carries a win-at-all-costs mentality.

Weaknesses

  • Moving Up in Weight: Jumping from welterweight (147 lbs) to middleweight (160 lbs) is a significant challenge.
  • Defensive Vulnerabilities: He has been hit cleanly in past fights, which could be dangerous against a more experienced opponent like Eubank Jr.

Keys to Victory

  • Close the Distance: Avoid fighting at range and turn the match into a close-quarters war.
  • Maintain Relentless Pressure: Benn’s best chance is to outwork Eubank Jr. and make him uncomfortable.
  • Attack the Body: Slowing down Eubank Jr. with body shots could be key to wearing him down.

Ricky Hatton’s Surprising Prediction

While many experts lean towards Eubank Jr. due to his experience and size advantage, Ricky Hatton has provided an interesting perspective.

Hatton acknowledges that “everything points towards Eubank Jr.” but does not rule out a Benn victory. He believes that if Benn can push the pace, break Eubank Jr.’s rhythm, and land meaningful shots early, the fight could turn in his favor.

However, he also warns that Eubank Jr.’s defensive skills could frustrate Benn, forcing him into mistakes.

The Controversy: Benn’s Drug Test Scandal and the Delayed Fight

Originally scheduled for October 8, 2022, at The O2 Arena, the fight was postponed after Conor Benn tested positive for clomifene, a banned substance.

Benn maintained his innocence, claiming contaminated food caused the positive test. After a lengthy legal battle, he was cleared to fight by the National Anti-Doping Panel, allowing the rescheduled 2025 bout to proceed.

Despite this clearance, the controversy cast a shadow over the fight, adding to the drama.

Mind Games and Pre-Fight Tensions

The lead-up to this fight has been anything but friendly.

  • The “Egg Incident”: At a recent press conference, Eubank Jr. smashed an egg on Benn’s head, referencing the drug test scandal linked to contaminated eggs. This resulted in a £100,000 fine for Eubank Jr.
  • Eddie Hearn’s £1 Million Bet: Promoter Eddie Hearn challenged Eubank Jr. to a £1 million bet, claiming Benn would win. Eubank Jr. accepted, but only if the money was placed in escrow before the fight.

image_67d9108bc1c21 Ricky Hatton’s bold prediction about the Chris Eubank vs. Conor Benn fight will blow your mind

Fight Prediction: Who Wins?

Scenario 1: Eubank Jr. Wins by Decision

If Eubank Jr. fights smart, uses his size, and avoids unnecessary risks, he should be able to outbox Benn over 12 rounds and secure a unanimous decision victory.

Scenario 2: Benn Wins by Late Stoppage

If Benn forces a high pace early, lands powerful body shots, and overwhelms Eubank Jr., he could potentially stop him in the later rounds.

Scenario 3: Eubank Jr. Wins by TKO

If Benn struggles with the weight jump and starts slowing down, Eubank Jr. could capitalize and force a referee stoppage in the later rounds.

Verdict: The safer bet is a Chris Eubank Jr. victory by decision, but Benn’s power and aggressive style make this fight far from predictable.

Final Thoughts: A Fight That Could Define Their Careers

This high-stakes grudge match is more than just a contest of skill—it’s a battle of legacy, pride, and redemption.

  • For Eubank Jr., a win solidifies his place among the best middleweights and honors his father’s legacy.
  • For Benn, a victory erases doubts, cements his transition to middleweight, and proves he can beat top-tier opponents.

One thing is certain: on April 26, 2025, boxing fans are in for an unforgettable night.

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