Eubank Jr. and Benn have London buzzing ahead of grudge match

LONDON: You can feel the atmosphere among boxing fans in London shifting by the hour, becoming sharper, louder and increasingly focused on one thing: this weekend’s showdown between Chris Eubank Jr. and Conor Benn.

As the clock continues to count down to Saturday night’s long-awaited fight, a “Live Media Workout” event on Wednesday brought the simmering rivalry right into the public eye.

The 90-minute session, which took place at The Pelligon in Canary Wharf (the venue previously known as East Wintergarden), drew a high-energy crowd of fans, journalists and other invited guests. But it was more than simply spectacle; it offered a rare glimpse into the final preparations of two fighters whose family names are etched into the pages of British boxing history.

Eubank Jr. and Benn each took the ring, shadowboxed under the bright lights, and answered questions as the cameras rolled. The energy in the place came not only from their movements, it emanated from the anticipation and excitement of the crowd. Every jab, every grin was part of the story.

During exclusive interviews with Arab News, both fighters expressed their excitement not only about Saturday’s clash, but also about what might come next, including the possibility of fighting in Saudi Arabia.

Eubank Jr., who appeared focused but relaxed, described the build-up to the bout as “incredible” and added: “It’s the biggest I’ve ever been involved in and I cannot wait.”

Asked about the prospect of taking to the ring in the Kingdom, he said: “Riyadh Season, His Excellency Turki Alalshikh (chairperson of the Saudi General Entertainment Authority) — they’re doing an amazing job with Ring Magazine. I’m sure after this fight, I’ll be fighting many more times, in Saudi