In Hollywood, there is a recurring theme of ‘nepo-babies’, i.e., kids benefiting on behalf of nepotism to make in the film industry. And although this is undoubtedly the case in film, when it comes to sports, especially combat, you simply can’t fake talent. Sure, Chris Eubank Jr. is the son of English boxing legend Chris Eubank Sr., but your surname won’t help you against a man trying to take your head off. And with a professional record of 33-3 with 24 knockouts, it’s safe to say, he’s a very dangerous man.
This Saturday, October 12 at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Chris Eubank Jr. faces Kamil Szeremeta in his first fight in over a year. If he wins, he’s lobbying for a fight against one of the greatest to ever do it, Canelo Alvarez. But to him, that won’t be an issue. Having made the move from London to Dubai in the last few years, Chris Eubank Jr. speaks with Esquire Middle East about his upcoming fight, his love of watches and standup comedians, and what it’s like living in Dubai.
The fight begins at 10pm UAE time. All additional info can be found on DAZN.
CHURCHILLS GYM ,LAMBETH
Esquire: What are your thoughts on the rapid success and expansion of Riyadh Season, and do you think Saudi has the potential to become the next boxing capital of the world?
Chris Eubank Jr: Absolutely, I think it’s possible. Saudi Arabia has been investing heavily in sports and entertainment over the past few years. They’ve brought in major fights, big events, and the infrastructure is growing rapidly. It’s got the potential to rival cities like Las Vegas and London in terms of boxing, especially with the money they’re pouring in and the vision they have for the future. It’s a new frontier for the sport, and we’re only at the beginning. If they keep bringing big names and creating world-class venues, it could be the next big hub for boxing thanks to his excellency Turki Al-Sheikh and Saudi Arabia.
Esquire: Tell me about your opponent Kamil. How has your preparation for this fight been, and what do you expect the outcome to be?
Chris Eubank Jr: Kamil’s a tough guy, no doubt about it. He’s got a solid chin, he’s experienced, and he’s been in the ring with the likes of Gennady Golovkin and Jaime Munguia. I respect him for that. But when it comes to me, I think he’s outmatched. I’ve been preparing like I always do—going back to the basics, refining my skills, and being sharper than ever. My team and I have left no stone unturned. As for the outcome? I expect to come out on top. I’m always looking to make a statement, and that’s what I plan to do here. A solid win will set the tone for where I’m going next.
CHURCHILLS GYM ,LAMBETH
Esquire: You got revenge on Liam Smith in a big way. How did it feel to get that win back, and what goes through your head after a stoppage loss?
Chris Eubank Jr.: That was a big moment for me, no question. Getting that win back, especially in the way I did, felt amazing. It was more than just a victory; it was closure, a redemption of sorts. When you lose, especially by stoppage, it hits hard. You reflect, you learn, and you become hungrier. You can’t let it define you, but you use it to grow. I had a clear vision of what I needed to do, and getting that win over Liam was a testament to my hard work and mental strength.
Esquire: There’s been so much crossover between MMA and boxing lately. Is there anyone from the MMA world you’d like to train with? And in your opinion, who has the best boxing in MMA right now?
Chris Eubank Jr.: It’s a great time for combat sports in general, and the crossover is exciting. If I had to choose one MMA fighter to train with, it’d probably be someone like Israel Adesanya. He’s got great movement, excellent striking, and he’s got the confidence that makes him a PPV star. As for the best boxing in MMA right now, it’s hard to ignore guys like Alex Pereira. They’ve got that crisp, sharp style that translates well from boxing into MMA.
Esquire: You’re known for your love of watches. Tell me about some of your favourites, and when did your fascination with timepieces begin?
Chris Eubank Jr.: I’ve always had an interest in watches. As I got older, I started to appreciate the craftsmanship and the history behind them. My favourites? I’ve got a few that I really cherish—my Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore, which is pretty cool, and a Patek Philippe Nautilus that I really love.
Esquire: You’ve done a collaboration with Fendi. Do you have any other fashion partnerships in the pipeline?
Chris Eubank Jr.: Yeah, the Fendi collaboration was amazing, and I was the first boxer to partner with them. I love working with brands that align with my personal style and values. I can’t say too much about what’s next, but there are definitely more fashion projects in the pipeline. I’m always looking for opportunities to push boundaries, so keep an eye out!
Esquire: I know you’re a fan of stand-up comedy. Who’s your favourite stand-up comedian right now, and what’s the best TV show or movie you’ve seen recently?
Chris Eubank Jr.: I’m a big fan of comedy—it’s a good way to unwind after the grind of boxing. Right now, I’m really into Kevin Hart but Jim Carrey has always been one of my favourite comedians. As for TV shows, I’ve been watching a lot of “Succession” lately. Movie-wise, “Oppenheimer” really impressed me. Christopher Nolan’s work is always top-notch, and the storytelling in that film was just next level.
Esquire: I have to ask about your taste in cars. You’ve been spotted in some Mansory creations. What draws you to those cars, and is there a specific model you’re most fond of?
Chris Eubank Jr.: Mansory cars are all about performance and exclusivity. I have a great relationship with Kourosh Mansory, who’s done an incredible job diversifying the Mansory brand and taking it to new heights. As for my favourite, I was lucky enough to get one of the first Mansory McLaren 720s model.
Esquire: Speaking of luxury, you’re currently staying at the Siro hotel in Dubai. But how do you balance intense training with wellness, and what role does it play in your routine?
Chris Eubank Jr.: It’s not just about being physically strong; it’s about recovery and maintaining focus. Staying at Siro has been great because they take a full-body approach to wellness as well as training. Whether it’s through the sauna, proper rest, or keeping my nutrition on point. You can’t perform at your best in the ring without taking care of your body and mind.
Esquire: Finally, you’ve made the move to Dubai from the UK. What made you make the switch to living there, and how’s life in Dubai compared to back home?
Chris Eubank Jr.: Dubai has been amazing for me. The lifestyle, the weather, and the opportunities it offers. It’s a hub for business and luxury, and that’s something that speaks to me. Also, the sports scene in Dubai is growing, which is great for someone like me who’s always looking for new challenges. It’s a world away from the UK, but in a good way. I love the balance I have here between my training, my business ventures, and my personal life
Chris Eubank Jr. fights Kamil Szeremeta on Saturday October 12, at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia live on Pay-Per View.
