Everyone has been eagerly awaiting the confirmation of the Conor Benn vs Chris Eubank Jr fight set for October 8th at the O2 Arena. However, it looks like Benn just confirmed the issue which is holding up the announcement.
The fight would rekindle a rivalry between the families led by their fighting fathers from 30 years ago. Due to the size of the event, it’s almost certain to be the first dip into the Pay-Per-View market for host broadcaster DAZN.
It has been widely reported today that a rehydration clause is delaying the big reveal.
Benn and Eubank Jr are said to have agreed to a 156lb catch-weight, a number that is two pounds north of the Super Welterweight limit.
This would give Benn a jump of nine pounds to make from his natural fighting weight, while Eubank Jr would have to drop four off his usual Middleweight maximum of 160lbs.
Much like this all-British matchup, the Jake Paul vs Hasim Rahman Jr bout has also created headlines due to the weight disparity. Rahman Jr is a natural Heavyweight who last tipped the scales at 224lbs. For the fight on August 6th, Rahman must initially make the 200lb limit before a second weigh-in on the morning of the fight where he must remain under 214lb.
Paul took to twitter to point out the similarities in the situation of both fights:
“Conor Benn dirty b/c he doesn’t want Chris Eubank to have a massive size advantage fight night? No…just wants a fair/safe fight.”
“Rahman can weigh-in @ any weight fight night. 200 weigh-in, 214 at noon fight-day, any weight fight night. Stop making excuses Jr. #DoubleStandards.”
https://twitter.com/jakepaul/status/1549394397216776195?s=20&t=wCD7dsP9QntUUqLNJKF1AQ
Conor Benn has since retweeted Paul’s post all but confirming rumours that the announcement delay is down to the rehydration clause.