Chris Eubank Jr.'s boxing career is currently on hold due to undisclosed health issues, leaving fans anxiously awaiting his return.
In a recent announcement, the boxer revealed he's been battling significant health problems over the past year. He shared this news on social media, accompanying it with a video of himself in a hospital, surrounded by medical professionals.
Eubank Jr. stated, "I've been dealing with a lot of health issues over the last year & yeah it all finally caught up to me last month. I will not box again until I'm back to 100% & I don't know when that will be, but one things for certain... For the fans that have supported me through thick & thin..." He also referred to his recent defeat against Conor Benn, stating, "It all finally caught up to me last month."
He further added, "I will not box again until I'm back to 100% and I don't know when that will be. But one things for certain... for the fans that have supported me through thick and thin, I will do everything in my power to make sure that one day, the old me makes a big comeback."
But here's where it gets controversial... Eubank Jr. has chosen to keep the specifics of his medical condition private, adding an air of mystery to his situation. He had hinted at these issues before his rematch with Benn. After winning their first fight earlier in the year, and reuniting with his father, Eubank Jr. was defeated by Benn in their rematch at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium last month.
Promoter Ben Shalom noted that Eubank Jr. "was half the man he could have been." Shalom told ESPN, "He probably threw 30% of the punches. Everyone can speculate what that reason is. Chris knows what it is, we know what it is. He'll have to deal with that in due course."
After his loss to Benn, Eubank Jr. admitted, "I've been through hell and back to make it here today. I genuinely thought that regardless of the issues that I've been dealing with, I would be able to go in there and win." He is not considering an immediate return to boxing, as he needs time to heal. "Right now, I'm not really in the state of mind to be thinking about next fights. I need to heal. I need to deal with what I'm dealing with and then after that I can start thinking about my path in the sport."
And this is the part most people miss... The rematch between Eubank Jr. and Benn took place at the 160-pound middleweight limit, but with a 10-pound rehydration clause. This meant neither fighter could weigh above 170 lbs on the morning of the fight.
What do you think could be the reason behind Eubank Jr.'s health issues? Do you believe the rehydration clause played a significant role in his performance? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
