Jack Catterall has weighed in on the upcoming rematch between Chris Eubank Jr and Conor Benn, believing that an emphatic finish is most certainly on the cards.
Entering their first encounter as a sizeable favourite was Eubank, 35-3 (25 KOs), who ultimately matched his adversary’s fierce aggression to claim a convincing points victory in April.
For many, though, it was Benn, 23-1 (14 KOs), who forcefully exceeded expectations, his bullish performance making the size difference between them appear not quite so drastic.
Prior to him winning the grudge match, it was widely speculated that the 35-year-old’s body is simply no longer designed to compete at middleweight.
Add to that a 10lbs rehydration clause, which he had to abide by on the morning of the fight, it is perhaps unsurprising that Eubank ended up in hospital with severe dehydration shortly after their showdown.
His torrid battle with the scales, therefore, has inspired many to side with Benn ahead of their sequel at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, London, on November 15.
Not least of those is former undisputed super-lightweight title challenger Catterall, 31-2 (13 KOs), whose support for Benn has been expressed for slightly different reasons. Asked for his verdict on the rematch, he told YSM Sports Media:
“Conor’s my guy. We’ve supported each other, watched each other fight, and I think he’s going to do it this time by stoppage.
“I think he had him [Eubank] hurt a few times; there were a few moments in the fight where I thought he was going to go.
“Credit to Eubank but I think, this time around, [Benn’s] going to take the emotion out of it – it’s more business – and I believe he’ll get the job done. I think [Benn will stop him] after five rounds – mid to late rounds.”
With Benn having previously campaigned at 147lbs, it would be a monumental statement if the Essex man dispatches his domestic rival inside the distance.
