Chris Eubank Jr once sparred with Carl Froch in 2014. The experience left a lasting impression on Froch, who later shared his thoughts about the young boxer.
Back then, Froch was nearing the end of his career as a two-time world champion. Eubank Jr, only 24, was just starting out. Now, a decade later, their paths have diverged significantly.
Froch hung up his gloves and retired from the sport. Eubank Jr kept fighting, moving between middleweight and super-middleweight divisions. He's had his ups and downs, losing to George Groves in his only major world title fight. He also suffered his first stoppage loss to Liam Smith, but bounced back with an early finish win in their rematch.
Eubank Jr's most recent victory came against Kamil Szeremeta in 2023. Now, he's gearing up for a showdown with Conor Benn on April 26. It's shaping up to be quite the grudge match, with Benn questioning Eubank Jr's desire and skill.
Despite these jabs, Eubank Jr remains the favorite. He's got more experience under his belt and he's naturally bigger than Benn.
Reflecting on their sparring session, Froch shared his thoughts with talkSPORT Boxing:
"I could tell that he wasn't a polished professional at that stage, because he hadn't had a big amateur career. Some of the stuff he was doing was quite crude, but his toughness and his fitness and work-rate were really good. He gave me really good sparring. He was smaller than me and lighter, but he soaked it up, he punched back, he was confident. He always had a go."
Froch got hit with some flush shots, but he dished out plenty too. He was impressed by Eubank Jr's quickness, toughness, and relentless forward movement.
"I've been in there with top fighters, so when you spar someone, you know. I thought, 'He could be good Eubank Jr,'" Froch added.
These days, Froch isn't as complimentary about Eubank Jr. Still, he predicts Eubank Jr will win against Benn, mainly because he's fought at a higher level against former or current world champions.
As the April 26 bout approaches, fans are getting pumped up. A promotional video for the fight has been making waves, even including a funny nod to an egg incident. It looks like this grudge match will deliver some serious fireworks.
