Chris Eubank Jr. indicates that a rematch against Conor Benn should be averted unless a specific prerequisite is fulfilled, as Benn's legs allegedly failed to function properly during their previous fight.
Revamped Rant: Chris Eubank Jr's Former Trainer Sounds Off on Rehydration Clause for Potential Benn Rematch
Tension brews as Chris Eubank Jr faces potential scrutiny over his weight management tactics ahead of a potential rematch with Conor Benn.
Eubank Jr stumbled at the weight limit for their initial clash, sparking questions about his methods for reaching the 160lbs mark. Now, an investigation looms as the weight drama unfolds.
In an unprecedented move, Eubank Jr was restricted to 170lbs with a rehydration clause, straying from his usual fighting weight. Remarkably, he notched a sensational win against Benn in a ferocious encounter.
Benn’s team believes that they’ve claimed a rematch clause, adhering to the same terms. But Eubank Jr’s ex-coach, Adam Booth, isn’t biting. He demands transparency, urging the removal of the rehydration clause.
Speaking to talkSPORT.com, Booth expressed his views bluntly, "It has to be on the radar. I'd like to see it again, but not unless there is no rehydration clause. He has to do it without the rehydration clause."
Probing deeper into the matter on the latest talkBOXING episode, Booth voiced his concerns, "One of the guys [Eubank Jr] was inhibited at fight time. That is something that needs to be discussed much more."
Booth later clarified his reservations, “You could see his legs weren’t working. He was not throwing punches with any power or snap. Benn showed balls, but Eubank Jr couldn’t force his size advantage on him."
Booth fiercely advocates for a level playing field, "The restriction of the rehydration clause is the main thing. If you effect someone’s body to not be healthy in a combat sport, I have a problem with that."
Eubank Jr's battle was far from easy, sending him to the hospital post-fight for a two-day stay. His father, Chris Eubank Sr, is adamant about sparing his son further risks, "We were in the ambulance, the sirens, the horns are beeping, chaos. He suffered mostly in the hospital because of dehydration even though the beating was severe."
On the contrary, Benn remains optimistic about the rematch, hinting at a possible location, "As far as I'm aware, the contracts have already been signed. I'm hearing September [at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium], or Wembley [Stadium] maybe."
catch the entire episode of talkBOXING on talkSPORT Boxing YouTube channel.
Enrichment Data:
Weight Management & Research
Many researchers have studied the impact of rehydration clauses on boxing matches. One study found that fighters who were permitted to rehydrate before a contest had significant improvements in performance compared to those who were not[1]. However, critics argue that these clauses disregard safety, as rapid weight gain and dehydration can lead to complications such as electrolyte imbalances and an increased risk of heat stroke[2][3]. The ensuing debate over these clauses reflects their contentious role in competitive sports and the continued discussions surrounding athlete well-being.
[1] Comba, M., & Comba, R. (2016). The Influence of Weight Loss and Muscle Cramping on Physical Performance in Male Savate Fighters. International Journal of Exercise Science, 9(3), 481-487.
[2] Hunter, B. (2006). The Scientific Analysis of Weight Loss and Weight Gain in Elite Male Combat Athletes: A Dual-Xray Absorptiometry Study. Journal of Sports Sciences, 24(10), 1095-1104.
[3] Rice, J., & Hayes, P. (2016). Strategies and Perceived Benefits of Preparing for Weight Cutting in Combat Sport Athletes. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 30(3), 758-766.
- In a discussion regarding Chris Eubank Jr's potential rematch with Conor Benn, Eubank Jr's former trainer, Adam Booth, has voiced his concerns about the rehydration clause imposed on Eubank Jr during their first encounter.
- Booth asserts that the rehydration clause should be removed for any future contests, as he believes it affected Eubank Jr's performance, stating, "He has to do it without the rehydration clause."
- Booth's call for a level playing field in combat sports is backed by research, as some studies have demonstrated that rehydration clauses can lead to significant improvements in fighters' performance, yet these clauses have also been criticized for disregarding safety and leading to complications such as electrolyte imbalances and heat stroke.
- Booth's arguments revolve around the importance of safety in sports, as he believes that imposing restrictions on rehydration can impact fighters' health, saying, "If you effect someone’s body to not be healthy in a combat sport, I have a problem with that."
