Chris Eubank Jr: Legacy, Pressure, and Chasing Greatness

Chris Eubank Jr. has had an eventful career with plenty of ups and downs, all while carrying the legacy of his father, Chris Eubank Sr. His father’s larger-than-life personality has cast a huge shadow over Jr.’s career, yet Eubank Jr. has still managed to make his own mark in the sport. Over the years, the 35-year-old has faced numerous setbacks, but recently, he triumphed in his highly anticipated grudge match against Conor Benn. As any essay writer covering boxing would note, his journey is one of resilience, legacy, and a constant pursuit of greatness. Here’s a look back at the life and career of Chris Eubank Jr.

Chris Eubank Jr: Legacy and Expectations

Chris Eubank Jr: the Early Years

Following a childhood that saw him move from East Sussex to Las Vegas, Eubank embarked on his amateur career, becoming a Golden Gloves champion for Nevada at 165lbs. While still in the infancy of his amateur career, he became the Western States Amateur Golden Glove Champion. Eubank ended his amateur career with a record of 24-2.

Talking Points in Eubank Jr.’s Boxing Career

Eubank Jr made his professional debut on November 12, 2011, at EventCity, Manchester, England, against Kirilas Psonko, winning by fourth-round TKO.

He raced to 18-0 as a professional before facing Billy Joe Saunders in 2014. Saunders controlled the first half of the fight with his slick footwork and shot selection. Eubank Jr came on strong in the second half of the fight but it wasn’t enough —he lost via split decision, with one judge scoring it 116–113 for Eubank, and the other two giving it to Saunders, 115–114 and 115–113.

The Brighton fighter won his next eight bouts before losing to George Groves who was in control for the majority of the fight, winning by majority decision, with the judge’s scorecards all favouring Groves, 117–112, 116–112 and 115–113.

Inactivity hampered Eubank’s momentum after the Groves defeat. His standout wins came against James DeGale and Liam Williams, followed by a loss to Liam Smith—before avenging that defeat in the rematch. A win in Riyadh then set up a high-stakes grudge match with Conor Benn, which Eubank memorably won, with all scorecards reading 116–112.

Family Tragedy

Chris Eubank Jr. heartbreakingly lost his brother Sebastian in July 2021, just days before his 30th birthday. Sebastian, a fellow boxer, was found dead in Dubai, where he lived. His brother’s passing was something Eubank spoke about in the build-up to the Benn fight.

Whatever happens in the remainder of Eubank’s career, his memorable bout with Benn has cemented his legacy in British boxing folklore. Despite his father’s legacy, Jr has managed to attract many new fans with how he largely conducted himself in the build-up to April 26.