Cancellation of Eubank Jr vs. Benn Press Conference Due to Security Concerns
The highly anticipated face-off between Chris Eubank Jr. and Conor Benn at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium has been canceled following a chaotic incident at their press conference in Manchester. The event, initially planned for Wednesday, was scrapped after Eubank Jr. sparked controversy by slapping an egg into Benn’s face during the press conference. The altercation has raised significant security concerns, prompting organizers to call off the pre-fight event.
Chaotic Scenes Unfold at the Press Conference
The tension between the two fighters reached a boiling point during the press conference in Manchester. In a shocking moment, Chris Eubank Jr. slapped an egg into Conor Benn’s face, a gesture that immediately escalated the situation. The incident has been widely condemned, with many questioning Eubank Jr.’s behavior and its implications for the upcoming fight. The confrontation has left fans and promoters alike on edge, wondering if the two fighters can coexist without further conflict.
Promoters Express Concerns and Frustration
Eddie Hearn, Conor Benn’s promoter, was quick to voice his frustration over the incident. He expressed doubts about whether the second press conference, scheduled for Thursday at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, could proceed safely. Hearn emphasized the volatile nature of the situation, stating, "It won’t be ‘have a sleep and calm down.’ It’s one-upmanship. ‘You’ve [Eubank] slapped me [Benn] and I couldn’t get to you.’" Hearn also suggested that keeping the two fighters apart might be necessary to prevent further clashes, describing Benn as "a hot-headed kid" and referencing the "old school" mentality of Nigel Benn, Conor’s father.
British Boxing Board of Control Investigates the Incident
The British Boxing Board of Control (BBBofC) has taken notice of the incident and has begun an investigation. In a statement, the governing body said, "The British Boxing Board of Control is aware of the incident at yesterday’s press conference in Manchester for the Chris Eubank Jnr. v Conor Benn contest on 26th April 2025 and are dealing with the matter in accordance with its regulations." This could potentially lead to disciplinary action against Eubank Jr., depending on the outcome of the investigation.
Additional Security Measures for Upcoming Events
Despite the cancellation of Wednesday’s event, plans for a second press conference on Thursday are still in place, albeit with heightened security to prevent further confrontations. Organizers are taking no chances, given the intensity of the rivalry between Eubank Jr. and Benn. However, the tension remains palpable, and many are questioning whether the two fighters can be kept apart until the actual fight on April 26.
The Bigger Picture: A Rivalry Fueled by Emotion
The incident has shed light on the deeper emotional undercurrents driving this rivalry. Boxing promoter Ben Shalom, who represents Eubank Jr., acknowledged that Eubank’s actions were "too far" and admitted that the fighter is "uncontrollable in that situation." Sky Sports’ Johnny Nelson added that there must be underlying issues that led to Eubank Jr.’s behavior, suggesting that the rivalry goes beyond mere promotion. The animosity between the two fighters is genuine, and it seems unlikely that the situation will calm down anytime soon. As the fight approaches, fans can expect more drama, both in and out of the ring.
In conclusion, the cancellation of the press conference due to security concerns highlights the volatile nature of the Eubank Jr. vs. Benn rivalry. With emotions running high and promoters scrambling to maintain control, the situation continues to unfold in ways that keep fans on the edge of their seats. Whether the fight itself will take place without further incidents remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: this is a rivalry that transcends the sport, driven by personal animosity and a clash of egos.