Hearn-Eubank Jr clash interrupts Ricky Hatton tribute at London press conference

LONDON — A pre-fight press conference in London on Wednesday was overshadowed when promoter Eddie Hearn attempted to pay tribute to Ricky Hatton, who died at age 46, but was interrupted by Chris Eubank Jr. ahead of next month’s rematch between Eubank Jr. and Conor Benn.

Hatton, known as the Hitman for his former two-weight world-title career, was found dead at his Manchester home on Sunday morning, police said, in what investigators described as not suspicious.

As Hearn began his tribute, Eubank Jr. cut in, prompting an on-stage exchange that drew reporters to the room. Hearn told the assembled media that he only wanted to say a few words about Hatton, but Eubank Jr. snapped back, arguing that there was no time for a tribute and insisting the media “move on with the press conference.” The confrontation escalated as Hearn reportedly called the younger fighter an a***hole, saying, “you talk shit, you’ll get what’s coming to you.” Eubank Jr. refrained from letting Hearn finish, continuing to speak over him and stating he did not want to listen to remarks he viewed as unnecessary.

The episode unfolded at the London event ahead of the long-awaited rematch between Eubank Jr. and Conor Benn, scheduled for next month. The press conference, held during a somber week for boxing following Hatton’s death, briefly shifted the focus from the bout to the heated exchange between the two men associated with rival camps.

Hatton’s death—coming in a week that has seen the boxing community reflect on its losses—was not treated as suspicious by authorities, who said there were no signs of foul play. The tributes from teammates and fans have emphasized Hatton’s impact on the sport and his standing as one of Britain’s most popular fighters of his era.

Eubank Jr., whose actions at the podium drew swift headlines, is the son of former world champion Chris Eubank Sr. The clash at the press conference comes at a time when both fighters are preparing for a high-profile rematch that has generated significant interest across the boxing world, with fans watching to see whether the confrontation in London foreshadows more intensity outside the ring.

No formal statement from either Eubank Jr.’s team or Hearn’s camp was immediately forthcoming regarding the incident, but the exchange underscored how the sport’s current promotional battle lines can intersect with moments of personal tragedy and national mourning. In the hours that followed, prominent voices within boxing urged respect for Hatton’s memory and called for the show to proceed with professionalism.

Hatton’s career, highlighted by memorable battles and a relentless fighting style, left a lasting imprint on British boxing. His passing serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life outside the ropes, even as fans and colleagues await the next chapter in a fight game that continues to evolve rapidly with new generations.