The boxing world is abuzz after Conor Benn‘s proposed fight with Chris Eubank Jr. has sparked significant concerns among industry experts. While the match between the two British fighters was initially hailed as a blockbuster bout, many within the sport are now warning Benn against going through with the highly anticipated clash. The warnings come after a string of setbacks in Benn’s career, which have raised questions about his readiness and the long-term impact such a fight could have on his future.

The High-Stakes Showdown: A Fight Years in the Making

The rivalry between Conor Benn and Chris Eubank Jr. has been brewing for years, largely due to the history between their families. Benn’s father, Nigel Benn, and Eubank Jr.’s father, Chris Eubank Sr., were two of the most iconic fighters of the 1990s, and their legendary encounters have only fueled the animosity between the two younger generations.

When Benn and Eubank Jr. agreed to face off in the ring, the matchup immediately captured the attention of boxing fans. Both fighters have a reputation for their aggressive styles, and the clash was expected to be an all-out war. However, following a series of complications in Benn’s career—most notably his suspension for a failed drug test—the fight now seems more like a risky gamble than a straightforward contest.

Conor Benn’s Controversial Past: Drug Test Fallout

The most significant cloud hanging over Conor Benn heading into the potential fight with Eubank Jr. is his failed drug test in 2022, which caused widespread controversy and put his entire career on hold. Benn tested positive for clomiphene, a banned substance that is typically used to increase testosterone levels. The failed test led to a suspension by the WBC and an indefinite delay of his much-anticipated fight with Eubank Jr. at the time.

While Benn has since denied knowingly taking the substance and has attempted to clear his name, the damage to his reputation has already been done. Despite being reinstated by the WBC after an investigation, many boxing pundits remain skeptical about Benn’s integrity, and his past failure to make weight for certain bouts has only added fuel to the fire.

Benn’s decision to come back after such a high-profile controversy has raised concerns about his physical and mental readiness to step back into the ring, especially against someone as skilled and dangerous as Chris Eubank Jr..

Boxing Experts Sound the Alarm: Is Benn Ready for Eubank Jr.?

Now, as Benn and Eubank Jr. prepare for what would be one of the most talked-about fights in British boxing history, a growing number of boxing experts are urging Benn to reconsider. Their concerns revolve around both his personal trajectory and his ability to compete at the highest level.

Ring Rust and Mental Health

After a lengthy period of inactivity due to the fallout from the failed drug test, experts worry that Benn may be suffering from ring rust. A fighter who has not had consistent competition can find it challenging to return to top form, especially when facing a highly skilled opponent like Eubank Jr..

Benn’s last fight was in 2022, and since then, he has not been in the ring with a credible opponent. Chris Eubank Jr., on the other hand, has fought regularly and remains a formidable force in the middleweight division. Experts believe that Benn’s lack of recent experience in a competitive environment could be a significant disadvantage. Moreover, some have questioned whether Benn’s mental state can withstand the pressures of such a high-profile fight after enduring public backlash and the scrutiny of the drug test scandal.

The Physical Toll

Another concern is Benn’s physical readiness. Benn, who was once a rising star in the welterweight division, would need to move up to middleweight to face Eubank Jr. This is a significant challenge, considering the added muscle and endurance required at the higher weight class. Eubank Jr., who has spent most of his career at middleweight, would hold a distinct size and strength advantage.

Boxing trainer and former champion, Teddy Atlas, has been particularly vocal about the risks Benn faces. “The issue here isn’t just about skill; it’s about the physicality of the fight. Chris Eubank Jr. is a seasoned middleweight with a big frame. Conor Benn, who has been a welterweight, may struggle to compete with someone that size, especially after such a long layoff.”

Eubank Jr.’s Tactical Edge

While Benn is a highly talented fighter, many believe that Eubank Jr. holds a tactical advantage in this matchup. Eubank Jr. has displayed a strong jab, solid defense, and excellent movement in his recent bouts. Benn is known for his aggression, but his wild and unrefined style could play into Eubank Jr.’s hands.

“Eubank Jr. has great boxing IQ. He’s got the discipline and the smarts to make Benn pay for mistakes, and if Benn is too reckless, it could cost him,” said former fighter Johnny Nelson. “Benn is strong, but Eubank Jr. is far more methodical. If Benn doesn’t adjust to Eubank Jr.’s style, he might find himself overwhelmed in the ring.”

The Stakes of the Fight: Benn’s Career and Reputation

Beyond the physical and tactical considerations, the fight with Eubank Jr. carries immense weight for Conor Benn’s career. A loss could have catastrophic consequences, not just for his professional reputation, but for his long-term future in the sport. Despite being only 26 years old, Benn’s career has already been derailed by controversy, and a loss to Eubank Jr. could tarnish his once-promising future in boxing.

For Benn, this fight represents an opportunity to prove that he is more than just the son of a boxing legend. It’s his chance to reassert himself as one of the top fighters in the world and shake off the doubts about his character and ability. However, experts caution that rushing into this fight, given his recent troubles, may be a mistake that could set him back even further.

The Verdict: Should Benn Fight Eubank Jr.?

While the fight between Conor Benn and Chris Eubank Jr. could be an epic spectacle, many boxing experts strongly advise Benn to hold off on this bout until he has had more time to recover from his hiatus and rebuild his confidence. There’s no doubt that Benn is a talented fighter, but he’s still dealing with the fallout from his failed drug test and a long period of inactivity.

The consequences of stepping into the ring with someone like Chris Eubank Jr. at this stage of his career could be too great. Benn may be better off working his way back up the ranks, rebuilding his reputation, and facing opponents who offer him a chance to regain his footing before going after one of the sport’s top contenders.

Only time will tell if Conor Benn takes the advice of these experts and steps back from this high-risk fight—or if he will once again dive headfirst into the ring, facing a challenge that could either make or break his career.