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As boxing fans count down to the highly anticipated rematch between Chris Eubank Jr. and Conor Benn, the war of words between the two camps has already intensified. This time, it’s Benn’s father, British boxing legend Nigel Benn, raising alarms about Eubank Jr.’s physical condition — suggesting the 36-year-old might already be feeling the strain of another punishing weight cut.

The rematch is set for November 15 at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, rekindling one of the most bitter rivalries in British boxing. The first meeting between the sons of two iconic fighters lived up to its billing — 12 hard-fought rounds that ended in a unanimous decision victory for Eubank Jr. But the post-fight headlines told a different story: the winner was immediately taken to the hospital, reportedly suffering from the extreme effects of dehydration.

Now, with the same weight clauses in place for the sequel, concerns about Eubank Jr.’s health have resurfaced.

A Familiar Battle With the Scales

In their first encounter, Eubank Jr. was fined £375,000 for tipping the scales at 160.05 pounds, narrowly missing the middleweight limit. The rehydration clause — which prevents either fighter from weighing more than 170 pounds on the morning of the fight — left him visibly gaunt during fight week.

Benn’s father, Nigel, told talkSPORT’s White & Jordan that history might be repeating itself.

“It just keeps going on, it’s just so much negativity,” Benn said. “It’s about having proper nutrition and a proper strength and conditioning coach. Has he got the right team around him? I saw him at the [face-off] photoshoot, and to me, he just looks drained.”

Nigel Benn’s observation has reignited debate among fans and pundits about whether the strict rehydration clause unfairly favors his son, who has fought most of his career at 147 pounds (welterweight).

Benn Defends the Contract Terms

When asked about the fairness of the arrangement, Conor Benn dismissed criticism of the weight stipulations, pointing out that Eubank Jr. has operated comfortably at middleweight for several years.

“[Eubank Jr] had the opportunity to say, ‘I don’t want this fight unless we change it,’ but no, he stood by the rehydration clause,” Benn said. “That was him — it’s all down to Chris Eubank Jr. He’s been fighting at middleweight for the last five or six fights. All of a sudden, he fights Conor Benn, and it’s ‘oh, look at the rehydration clause.’ He’s always fought at middleweight!”

The remarks reveal a growing tension that extends beyond the ring. While the rematch is set to reignite one of boxing’s most storied family rivalries, the discourse surrounding fairness, fighter safety, and promotional politics continues to dominate the headlines.

Health Risks Loom Over “Next Gen”

Eubank Jr.’s post-fight condition last time — a swollen face, bloodied features, and reported hospital delay — left many questioning whether the rehydration rules should be revisited. Critics argue that such clauses, while intended to ensure competitive balance, often come at the cost of athlete health.

Adding another layer of controversy, Eubank Jr. has reportedly faced potential legal action over claims that his ambulance was delayed by event organizers after his first bout with Benn. Promoters have since denied the accusation, but the dispute underscores the intensity and animosity surrounding the rematch.

Trainer BoMac Offers Assurance

Despite mounting concerns, Eubank Jr.’s trainer Brian “BoMac” McIntyre remains confident that his fighter will handle the weight cut without issue this time.

McIntyre, who has worked with elite champions such as Terence Crawford, stated that the team has refined its approach to nutrition and recovery. According to BoMac, Eubank Jr. is “in great shape” and “ready to make a statement” come fight night.

The Stage Is Set

With both camps trading verbal jabs and fans bracing for another explosive showdown, Eubank Jr. vs. Benn II promises high drama inside and outside the ring. The question remains whether Eubank Jr.’s body — not his boxing skills — will become his greatest opponent.

For Nigel Benn, the warning is clear. The fight may be weeks away, but the battle with the scales has already begun.