Chris Eubank Jr has revealed that he compensated the undercard fighters who were set to compete in 2022 before his highly anticipated bout with Conor Benn was cancelled.
The fight was called off after Benn failed a voluntary drug test, triggering a two-year investigation by anti-doping authorities. His suspension was lifted in November 2023.
The rescheduled middleweight clash between the British fighters is now set for April 26 at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
Eubank took to Instagram to share a screenshot that appeared to show payments made to 10 undercard fighters who lost out financially due to the original event’s cancellation.
He wrote: “Here’s a little something to help out the undercard fighters that were left out of pocket. Few boxers didn’t want to give me their bank details, maybe they will now.”
Among those who responded was Shannon Courtenay, who was scheduled to fight on the undercard, replying, “Man of his word – thank you.” Unified IBF and WBO super-bantamweight champion Ellie Scotney also praised Eubank, commenting, “What a guy.”
Benn, 28, has consistently denied any intentional doping. Both fighters are currently undergoing testing by the Voluntary Anti-Doping Association (VADA) ahead of next week’s bout.
A February 2023 report from the WBC concluded that Benn’s failed test was likely the result of a “highly elevated consumption” of eggs.
Tensions between the two remain high. At a press conference earlier this month, they had to be separated by security after Eubank smashed an egg in Benn’s face during a heated face-off.
