Joe Calzaghe Cautions Conor Benn: Dropping a Weight Class Could Change You Forever, But Eubank Jr. Fight is a No-Brainer!

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Background
• Analysis by Joe Calzaghe
• Build-Up to the Fight
• Conclusion

JOE CALZAGHE believes that Chris Eubank Jr and Conor Benn are fortunate that their fathers maintained a competitive friendship.

Chris Eubank Sr and Nigel Benn became permanently linked following their thrilling bouts in 1990 and 1993.

Chris Eubank Jr and Conor Benn have been encouraged to capitalize on their family rivalryCredit: Reuters Joe Calzaghe has shared his thoughts on the upcoming rematchCredit: Getty

Brighton legend Eubank Sr, now 59, won their first encounter, while the second ended in a controversial draw.

In April, they will meet again in a middleweight showdown at Tottenham’s stadium, with no titles at stake, just the legacies of their fathers.

Benn, 29, is determined to fight for a world title next.

Welsh great Calzaghe, who defeated Eubank Sr in 1997, believes the second-generation fighters are at a unique crossroads.

The undefeated 46-0 super-middleweight champion, 53, told SunSport: “This will undoubtedly be their biggest payday.”

“Once they return to their respective weight classes, they might realize that achieving a world title will be significantly more challenging and financially less rewarding.”

“It's essential to consider this from a business perspective.”

“Given Eubank's age, I would be surprised if he competes for a world title again. For Conor Benn, it all hinges on the weight he chooses to fight at after this matchup. We've seen many fighters bulk up and then struggle to return to their previous weight, never quite the same afterward.”

“So I believe this is their peak moment. They are fortunate to have each other, as their fathers are warriors and legends; I wish them both the best.”

The lead-up to their first epic clash was filled with two years of scandal, drama, and Eubank Jr’s egg incident involving his rival.

Benn’s doping case concerning clomifene, which he attributed to excessive egg consumption, delayed the bout and provided Eubank Jr with plenty of material to fuel the family feud.

On fight night, Eubank Jr and Sr reunited after a six-year rift, a storyline that could have come straight from Hollywood.

This time, with everyone wealthier and more amicable, the atmosphere lacks the previous hostility and bitterness.

Calzaghe, who triumphed over boxing greats like Roy Jones Jr and Bernard Hopkins, believes this will help the composed former super-middleweight Eubank Jr maintain his winning streak.

He explained: “I think Eubank will be cautious and may utilize his jab more in the early rounds, knowing that Conor Benn poses a real threat, as he did land some solid punches that buzzed him a little in their previous encounter.”

“Conor needs to pace himself better, but he must also be explosive, so he must find a balance between caution and aggression.”

“As the fight progresses, it’s likely that the larger fighter will have the advantage. It may not be as explosive as last time, as the previous match was filled with fireworks.”

JOE CALZAGHE was speaking before his exclusive appearance at Paddy’s Sportsbook at The Hippodrome Casino for Eubank Jr vs Benn 2.