Key Highlights
- Chris Eubank Jr and his father Chris Eubank Sr reconciled before a big boxing match.
- The estrangement between them lasted several years due to public feuds and personal differences.
- The reconciliation was crucial for Eubank Jr’s win against Conor Benn at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in April 2025.
- Eubank Sr expressed his support by being present during the fight, which gave Eubank Jr an extra boost of confidence.
The Legacy and Strained Relationship
Chris Eubank Jr has always sought the approval of his renowned father, Chris Eubank Sr, a former world champion in boxing. The legacy of their family name was heavily intertwined with each other’s careers, but this relationship took a turn for the worse in 2019 when Eubank Jr decided to “walk his own path,” leading to an estrangement that lasted several years.
Their relationship further deteriorated in 2021 when Eubank Sr lost his son Sebastian to a heart attack. This personal tragedy widened the gap between them, as Eubank Sr struggled with how to maintain their working relationship while grieving for his child. The impact of this event on both men’s lives was profound and contributed significantly to their eventual estrangement.
The Reconciliation and Its Impact
On the eve of one of the biggest fights in Eubank Jr’s career against Conor Benn, a historic rematch that evoked memories of their fathers’ 35-year-old rivalry, things looked bleak. However, Chris Eubank Sr took the initiative by reaching out via text message to his estranged son just 24 hours before the fight.
Their reunion was kept under wraps until the moment they were seen together backstage at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. This reconciliation had a profound impact on both fighters and their careers. The presence of Eubank Sr in the corner during the fight gave Eubank Jr an extra boost, contributing to his eventual victory by unanimous decision.
Eubank Sr’s support was not just symbolic; it was crucial for his son’s mental and emotional state as they prepared for this high-stakes battle. “He didn’t leave my side at all that night,” Eubank Jr said. “When I needed him the most, he was there to offer me the last piece of energy.” This gesture highlighted the importance of family support in high-pressure environments.
Future of Their Relationship
The boxing world witnessed a historic moment as father and son reunited before one of their biggest fights. In a new BBC film, both men opened up about their split and subsequent reconciliation, reflecting on what their mended relationship means for the future.
Eubank Jr expressed his desire to become a different kind of father—someone who would be there for his children in every aspect of life, not just boxing. “I want to do things differently from my dad,” he said. “I want to be the type of father that my kids can come to and talk about anything.” This shift in perspective highlights the long-term impact of their relationship on Eubank Jr’s personal growth.
The future looks promising for the Eubanks as they aim to focus on rebuilding their relationship beyond just boxing. “What I want from him as a father is friendship,” said Eubank Jr. “I want to be able to go out with my kids and talk about anything but boxing.” This sentiment underscores the importance of creating new memories and experiences together, moving forward from the past.
The Eubanks: Like Father, Like Son, a film by BBC Three, delves into their complex relationship. It is now available for viewing on BBC iPlayer at 21:00 GMT on Tuesday. The boxing world eagerly awaits what this new chapter will bring as the Eubank family navigates the challenges and opportunities of their renewed bond.
