Chris Eubank Jr Compensates Fighters After 2022 Bout Cancellation

LONDON, England – Chris Eubank Jr. has compensated the undercard fighters who suffered financial losses when his fight against Conor Benn was postponed in 2022 due to Benn’s failed drug test. The boxing match, originally scheduled for October 8, 2022, at the O2 Arena, was canceled just two days before the event after Benn tested positive in a voluntary drugs screening.

In a show of solidarity with the fighters affected, Eubank Jr. announced on social media that he has sent payments of £3,571.43 each to ten boxers who were scheduled to compete on the undercard. This gesture comes as he prepares to face Benn anew on April 26, 2025, at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

“From my purse for this fight, I will be giving £50,000 to the fighters on that undercard to split between them to cover some of their losses,” Eubank Jr. stated. He added, “I hope Eddie and Conor both put up their own £50,000.”

Several of the fighters expressed their gratitude through social media. Shannon Courtenay, who was among those scheduled to fight, commented, “man of his word – thank you” to Eubank Jr.’s post. Unified IBF and WBO champion Ellie Scotney echoed the sentiment, writing, “what a guy.”

Eubank Jr.’s decision to compensate these fighters comes after a lengthy two-year battle with anti-doping authorities concerning Benn’s case. Despite Benn’s denial of intentional doping, the World Boxing Council’s independent report released in February 2023 indicated that the failed test may have stemmed from “highly elevated consumption” of eggs, suggesting no malicious intent.

The fight was initially set to reignite the rivalry between Eubank Jr. and Benn, which traces back to their fathers’ infamous battles in the 1990s. As preparations resumed for their match, tensions backstage continue to heighten. Security was notably called upon during a recent news conference in April to separate the two during a heated face-off.

Eubank’s father, Chris Eubank Sr., has publicly opposed the fight, criticizing his son’s involvement in the promotion of the match and voicing concerns regarding his safety, especially after witnessing Eubank Jr.’s knockout loss against Liam Smith earlier this year. Despite these familial tensions, both fighters remain focused as they gear up for the blockbuster bout that could shift the landscape of British boxing.

The upcoming fight will be broadcast live on Sky Sports Box Office as they prepare to settle their scores in the ring.