Conor Benn's getting ready for a fight, but he's not sure who'll be across the ring. The British boxer plans to face Chris Eubank Jr in September, but he's got a backup plan just in case.
Benn and Eubank Jr are set to meet again in London this September. Their first fight in April was a tough one, with both fighters throwing lots of punches. Benn moved up to 160lbs from his usual 147lbs, and Eubank Jr's size advantage showed. Many called it a "fight of the year contender," and Eubank Jr won on points.
But now, Benn thinks Eubank Jr might back out. He says Eubank has "bottled it," pointing to weight issues from their last fight. Eubank Jr barely made weight last time and had to follow a strict rehydration rule on fight morning.
"Chris Eubank Jr has until July 14 to decide if he wants the rematch," Benn said. "If he doesn't, I've got other options."
One of those options is Shakur Stevenson, the undefeated two-weight world champion. Benn and Stevenson have already agreed to fight at 147lbs in November if the Eubank Jr rematch falls through.
"I'll come down to fight you at 147 in November," Benn told Stevenson on Ariel Helwani's show.
Stevenson replied, "Done. After I beat you, just tell me I'm great."
Eddie Hearn, Benn's promoter, likes the idea of a Stevenson fight. But some fans aren't happy about Benn changing weight classes again. They want both fighters to stick to their natural divisions.
The Benn-Eubank Jr rematch is still set for September, but Benn's keeping his options open. He'll be ready to fight, whether it's Eubank Jr at 160lbs or Stevenson at 147lbs. The boxing world will have to wait and see who steps into the ring with Benn next.
