Featured Image Credit: Getty
Topics: Boxing, Chris Eubank Jr, Eddie Hearn
Nasir Jabbar
The Chris Eubank Jr. vs. Conor Benn rematch includes a controversial contract clause as Eddie Hearn has spoken out.
Eubank Jr. vs Benn 2 was officially announced on Monday as Turki Alalshikh took to social media to announce the blockbuster clash, which is slated to take place in London on September 20.
It's a repeat of their April showdown, with 'Next Gen' scoring a unanimous decision victory over Benn at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
The bout was contested at 160lbs, but Eubank Jr. missed weight during Friday's official weigh-ins, resulting in a massive fine.
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The 35-year-old, however, came under the rehydration limit on the morning of the fight, tipping the scales inside the 170lbs rehydration.
The clause was subjected to criticism from fans and critics alike as they questioned Eubank Jr.'s safety.
Despite the backlash from the contract clause, it will remain in the deal for their rematch.
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So, Eubank Jr. will have to weigh 160lb the day before his fight against Benn and must be under the rehydration limit of 170lb on the day of the fight.
Matchroom promoter Hearn has defended the contract clause, claiming it's Eubank Jr.'s fight weight.
"Look, we have a contract with Saudi Arabia and Ring Magazine for two fights on the same term. That's all I got to say on it," he told iFL TV.
"Regarding the rehydration clause, Chris Eubank Jr. actually slept in on Saturday morning because he was fine and weighed in... in his clothes with a jacket on and he was a pound or half under.
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"The rehydration was not a problem for Chris Eubank Jr. Now, 160lbs I believe he struggled. Yeah, a lot of fighters struggle at the weight but that's his weight."
Hearn added: "You can't just say, 'Oh it was out of order making him weigh 160'. No, it wasn't. That's his weight. His last five fights have been there. Conor Benn came up two divisions.
"So, all I can tell you is, the contract we have, we're ready to go."