By Barry Holbrook: Chris Eubank Jr reacted in shock at today’s public workout about the positive drug test by Conor Benn ahead of their scheduled fight this Saturday night at the O2 Arena in London.
Eubank Jr (32-2, 23 KOs) says he’s hoping the BBBofC and the promoters can work this thing out so that the fight with Benn (21-0, 14 KOs) will go ahead and the fans aren’t let down.
In the meantime, Eubank Jr says he’s “clean” and “60%” for the fight, should it go ahead. Eubank Jr states that he’s “cut the weight” and is “ready to go” for Saturday.
“There was no phone call. No, we haven’t spoken,” said Eubank Jr to Matchroom Boxing, denying the reports that he’d spoken to Conor Benn this morning after his positive test surfaced.
“We haven’t spoken since this was announced. It’s a shame, but my promoters, his promoters, and the Boxing Board of Control, they’re going to sort it out. I’m ready; I’m clean; I’m 60%. I’ve been tested my entire career for the last ten years.
“I’ve been tested more than I’ve ever been tested for a fight during this training camp. I’ve never failed a test. Obviously, I don’t condone illegal substances in the sport of boxing, especially in boxing, because things can happen. Health is a real issue.
“I’m staying out of the politics. I don’t know what’s going on. I’ve heard the news like you’ve heard the news, and all I can do is be a professional and make sure I’m ready to fight.
“I’m ready, and as news unfolds, we’ll deal with it as it goes on. I’ve prepared, I’ve done my job, and it’s now in the hands of the governing bodies to make this fight happen. All I can do is be ready.
“Of course, there are concerns, but I really can’t say too much. Again, I’m ready. I’m a clean fighter. I’ve prepared, I’ve cut the weight, and I’m ready to go. This is all unfolding. All I’ve got to do is make sure I’m ready to go.
“I hope so. It should do. I’m ready; he’s ready,” said Eubank Jr when asked if he thinks his fight with Benn will go ahead on Saturday. “Whatever the Boxing Board is saying, they’re saying. My promoters will do their best to ensure that we get the fight going, and the fans aren’t let down,” said Eubank Jr.
