Awkward Encounter at Prestigious Boxing Ceremony
Chris Eubank Jr and Conor Benn faced off once more in a notably tense moment at the Ring Magazine Awards held Friday evening in New York. The longtime rivals attended the event after earning a nomination for Fight of the Year, stemming from their highly anticipated bout earlier in the year.
The ceremony highlighted boxing’s elite, with Eubank Jr and Benn seated directly opposite each other at the central ‘legends’ table. Surrounding them were boxing icons such as Lennox Lewis, Bernard Hopkins, Canelo Alvarez, Terence Crawford, and Oleksandr Usyk, along with other current and former world champions, intensifying the focus on the pair.
Winning the Acclaimed Award
Announcers revealed that Eubank Jr and Benn secured the Fight of the Year honor, surpassing contenders like Beterbiev vs Bivol II, Inoue vs Cardenas, Mason vs Noakes, and Teraji vs Yuri Akui. Upon hearing their names, both fighters stood simultaneously, exchanged a quick glance, and navigated around the table in opposite directions. They walked silently past the gathered legends before meeting at the stage’s base.
Eubank Jr ascended first and addressed the audience: “2025 was a big year for me. The highest of the highs and the lowest of the lows. As did this man, ironically enough. What we did in April has earned us fight of the year but I think this particular fight will go down in history and be remembered forever. That is all that any fighter can ever really dream to achieve during their career. I am humbled, grateful and proud. Thank you to everyone who was involved in the fight.”
Speeches and a Brief Handshake
As Eubank Jr concluded, the fighters swapped positions. They paused for a firm, silent handshake, locking eyes before proceeding without further words. Benn then stepped to the podium and stated: “I just want to say a big thank you to everyone involved in making the fight happen. It is a privilege to deliver entertainment for the public for fight of the year and a blessing to be here. A big thank you to everyone involved. Most of all, a big thank you to you Chris. This fight wouldn’t have happened if it wasn’t for you. It takes two to tango, and you brought that out of me. Credit to you. Thank you guys.”
Following their speeches, Eubank Jr and Benn posed for official photos side by side. They maintained a visible distance while facing the cameras. During the wait, Eubank Jr thanked Benn for the acknowledgment in his speech, receiving a brief shrug in response.
Return to Separate Seats
The pair then descended the stage and returned to their seats on opposite sides of the table. They avoided further interaction for the rest of the evening, engaging separately with the ongoing ceremony.
