Benn battles demons and doubters to emerge triumphant against Eubank Jr
Victory was driven by resentment after defeat in their first bout and towards his doubters after failed drug tests in 2022
Donald McRae
Donald McRae at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium
Sun 16 Nov 2025 15.40 GMT
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“Ifeel like I’m going to go home and cry,” Conor Benn said quietly in the early hours of Sunday morning at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. “I think I’m going to cry here. Oh man, it’s been hard.”
Despite the surprising ease with which he had beaten his nemesis Chris Eubank Jr over 12 one-sided rounds on Saturday night, Benn’s face was bruised. But his mouth almost crumpled because of a different struggle locked deep with himself. In 2022, Benn tested positive for clomifene twice in separate tests held months apart from each other.
Nigel Benn carries his triumphant son Conor after the final bell at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
Conor Benn overpowers Chris Eubank Jr to seal dominant rematch victory
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He reacted angrily then – protesting his innocence vociferously but never producing in public the evidence he said cleared him categorically of intentionally taking a prohibited substance. Benn was in undoubted turmoil but the infamy did not hurt his bank balance.
Benn made a reputed £7.5m seven months ago when he was finally allowed to return to the ring in Britain – but he lost clearly against Eubank Jr in a brutal bout. That defeat was his first as a professional and it hurt far more because it was doled out by a man he claimed then to detest.
He earned even more on Saturday when he apparently took home £8m to Eubank Jr’s £10m. But he did not look like a man with money on his mind. “You go through things in life but you just have to keep fighting,” the 29-year-old said. “Facing your own demons every single day. That’s your hardest fight. You have to live in your head every single day. Getting in the ring is no problem.”
He said his uncharacteristically composed performance was driven by a resentment towards those who doubt him: “It’s the chip on my shoulder, people saying ‘Oh, you can’t box, you can’t do this or that.’ I woke up with that feeling every morning – people think I can’t outbox him for 12 rounds? Watch me. That fuelled me.”
Benn is highly emotional and complex and he admitted that “it’s hard for me to tone it down … but I felt a lot of pressure from my team to get it right. You can’t get it right for eight weeks and not on fight night. You’d be a mug.”
Benn boxed with such authority that he was entitled to remind us that: “I said earlier in the week there was going to be a systematic beat-down and that’s what I done”. At one stage in his domination of Eubank, Benn revealed, “I said to him: ‘This is easy work. Is that all you got?’”
Benn seems determined to move down from middleweight to his natural home at welterweight – where he needs to shed 13 pounds to make the 147 limit. “It’s going to be hard,” he conceded while stressing that his “dream” is to emulate his father, Nigel, by winning the WBC world title.
Chris Eubank Jr is knocked down by Conor Benn during their middleweight fight.
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Chris Eubank Jr (left) refused to discuss his future and any pre-fight problems after the comprehensive loss. Photograph: Justin Setterfield/Getty Images
Eubank Jr had looked severely diminished in the ring but, to his credit, he came out to face the media first. “I’ve been through hell and back to make it here today,” he said, hinting at unspoken “issues” during his long camp. “I genuinely thought that regardless of the issues that I’ve been dealing with, I would be able to go in and win. But from that first round I realised I was mistaken.”
He held our gaze. “I’m a fighter. This is what I do, regardless of the dangers and the risk. We go to war. I tried my best but Conor put on a hell of a fight. I congratulate him.”
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Asked to explain his problems, Eubank shook his head. “No, this night’s about Conor. He fought a great fight and I’m not here to talk about me. He’s a tough man and a great fighter.”
He sounded like a man who was done with boxing. “No, we’re not talking about that. I’m not in a state of mind to be thinking about next fights. I need to heal. I need to deal with what I’m dealing with.”
Someone asked Eubank if he was OK. “I’m alive. I’m happy. I get to do what I love every day, regardless of the trials and tribulations. I’m still fulfilled. So I’m good. I’m OK.”
Eubank has persisted more than most in still asking questions about Benn’s positive drug tests but, with the fight beaten out of him, he was less belligerent and dogged than usual: “If you share a ring with a man for 12 rounds or 24 rounds you have that respect.”
There was relief, too, in the fact that Benn had also run out of animosity. Asked if his vanquished 36-year-old rival should retire Benn said: “He’s got more important things to worry about – with twin boys [who are due to be born soon]. He’s a dad of two now and that’s always a priority. It’s not down to me to say whether or not he should retire.”
Benn reiterated that his long spat with Eubank Jr was “over”. He said: “I feel like we’re done now. I can breathe. This has been three years of my life – hearing Benn-Eubank, Eubank-Benn every single day. It’s good to sit here and say: ‘Yeah, it’s done and I’ve ended it with a win.’ That’s closed. Let’s move on. Let’s just call it a day.”
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The 2026 Kia Sportage: A Masterclass in Practical Elegance for the Everyday American Driver
Having spent over a decade deeply embedded in the automotive industry, dissecting everything from the latest autonomous concepts to the subtle nuances of consumer buying habits, I’ve developed a keen eye for what truly matters in a vehicle. It’s rare to see a model that perfectly balances ambition with practicality, innovation with reliability. In the bustling landscape of 2025, where electrification, connectivity, and sophisticated design are paramount, the 2026 Kia Sportage emerges not as a groundbreaking outlier, but as a meticulously refined contender that understands its audience implicitly. It’s built for the buyer, for the daily commute, for the weekend adventure, and it executes its mission with remarkable precision and an often-understated brilliance.
This isn’t a vehicle vying for headline-grabbing innovation awards or trying to reinvent the wheel. Instead, the 2026 Sportage, with its recent refresh, represents a thoughtful evolution of an already highly competent platform. In a market saturated with options, from premium compact SUVs to affordable fuel-efficient crossovers, Kia has opted for refinement over revolution, solidifying the Sportage’s position as a truly compelling option for a vast segment of American buyers. It’s a testament to Kia’s strategic foresight, recognizing that sometimes, the best path forward is to perfect what you already do well.
Design Evolution: Subtle Strokes in a Bold World
The original Sportage, with its distinctive ‘boomerang’ LED daytime running lights and unconventional front fascia, certainly turned heads upon its 2023 debut. For 2026, Kia’s designers haven’t thrown out the playbook but have instead subtly softened some of the more polarizing elements. This exterior redesign is less about a radical transformation and more about maturing the aesthetic. The effect is a more universally appealing, yet still modern and recognizable, presence on the road.
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Interior Sanctuary: Where Thoughtful Design Meets Everyday Utility
Step inside the 2026 Sportage, and you immediately understand where much of Kia’s focus has been. This is where the vehicle truly shines for the everyday user. The cabin is not just a space; it’s a thoughtfully designed environment that anticipates and caters to the needs of its occupants. The larger standard touchscreen, now running a snappy, intuitive operating system, is a welcome upgrade. Its integration feels seamless, contributing to a clean and modern dashboard aesthetic. The digital instrument cluster complements this, offering crisp graphics and customizable displays that enhance the in-car technology experience.
However, even the most refined cabins have their quirks. The dual-function climate and media control panel, which toggles between physical HVAC and infotainment controls, remains a point of contention for me and many industry colleagues. While it attempts to reduce button clutter, the need to constantly switch modes can be distracting and counterintuitive, especially for new users. In an era where intuitive infotainment systems are paramount, this interface decision stands out. That said, it’s a minor blemish on an otherwise stellar interior.
Beyond that, the Sportage’s cabin is a masterclass in practicality and material quality for its price point. The storage solutions are genuinely clever—a factor often overlooked in reviews but crucial in daily life. The center console offers ample space with configurable cup holders and hidden compartments, perfect for stashing essentials. The placement of the second grab handle on the front door panels, designed for easier door closure, exemplifies the kind of thoughtful interior touches that elevate the user experience. Material quality feels robust, with soft-touch surfaces where it matters most, creating an atmosphere that punches above its weight class. For those seeking a premium interior design without the premium price tag, the Sportage delivers in spades.
Under the Hood: Balancing Power and Efficiency for Modern Driving
The powertrain offerings for the 2026 Sportage highlight Kia’s commitment to providing options that cater to diverse driving needs, reflecting the ongoing shift in the automotive technology trends 2025. The standard gasoline engine, while competent for most urban and suburban driving, can feel somewhat strained when pressed, particularly with a full complement of passengers or cargo. It’s certainly adequate, but those seeking spirited acceleration or frequent highway passing power might find it leaves a little to be desired.
Where the Sportage truly begins to impress is with its hybrid (HEV) and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) options. The Sportage Hybrid AWD, which we evaluated extensively, delivers a commendable balance of performance and hybrid SUV fuel economy. While its efficiency ratings are good, they aren’t necessarily segment-leading, especially in a year like 2025 where competition in fuel-efficient crossovers is fiercer than ever. The recent, albeit modest, horsepower boost to the hybrid system is appreciated, offering a slightly more responsive feel without dramatically altering its overall character.
However, the real game-changer for some buyers will be the available plug-in hybrid variant. Offering a substantial all-electric driving range, the PHEV addresses concerns around electric vehicle range anxiety for daily commutes, allowing many users to complete their daily driving on pure electric power. This blend of electric capability and gasoline backup makes it an incredibly versatile option, appealing to those looking to dip their toes into electrification without fully committing to a battery-electric vehicle. The transition between power sources is smooth, demonstrating sophisticated powertrain engineering that contributes to a refined driving experience.
Driving Dynamics: Composed, Confident, and Surprisingly Engaging
One area where Kia’s engineers have consistently impressed over the past few years is in chassis tuning, and the 2026 Sportage is no exception. Despite its compact SUV stature, the Sportage exhibits a level of composure and refinement that is genuinely unexpected for its class. The ride quality is notably comfortable, adeptly soaking up road imperfections without feeling floaty. This makes it an ideal companion for long journeys and navigating the often-battered urban infrastructure.
On the handling course, the Sportage reveals a surprising eagerness. While no one expects it to be a track-day hero, it tackles corners with a stability and predictability that inspires confidence. The steering is well-weighted, offering decent feedback, and body roll is kept commendably in check. This isn’t just a vehicle that gets you from A to B; it’s one that makes the journey pleasant, even when the road gets twisty. It demonstrates a maturity in vehicle dynamics that elevates the overall driving experience, distinguishing it from many of its more pedestrian rivals. For a reliable family SUV, this balance of comfort and controlled handling is a significant plus.
Safety and Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS): Peace of Mind Comes Standard
In 2025, vehicle safety is non-negotiable, and the 2026 Sportage leaves no stone unturned in this regard. Earning a five-star overall NHTSA rating, it provides a robust foundation of passive safety features. Beyond the structural integrity, Kia’s suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) is comprehensive and, more importantly, user-friendly.
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The Value Proposition: Smart Luxury on a Sensible Budget
Ultimately, the 2026 Kia Sportage’s most compelling argument lies in its incredible value. In a market where new car prices seem to climb relentlessly, the Sportage offers an impressive array of features, a refined driving experience, and a high-quality interior at a price point that makes it an affordable SUV with advanced features. Loaded models, particularly the hybrid variants, come equipped with amenities and a level of sophistication typically found in much more expensive vehicles.
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Conclusion: A Champion for the Real World
The 2026 Kia Sportage, with its subtle refresh, isn’t designed to win every “SUV of the Year” award. Its strategy isn’t about disruptive innovation but about meticulous refinement and unwavering competence. It excels in the areas that truly matter to the everyday driver: comfort, practicality, safety, and undeniable value.
It ticks all the boxes, delivering a cohesive and satisfying ownership experience. While some might desire more dramatic styling changes or segment-leading efficiency figures, the Sportage offers a supremely balanced package. It’s a testament to Kia’s understanding of its core audience – those who demand a dependable, stylish, and feature-rich compact SUV that seamlessly integrates into their busy lives. In 2025, with so many choices on the table, the Sportage presents itself as a supremely intelligent choice, a true workhorse cloaked in elegant modernity.
Ready to experience the perfect blend of style, technology, and practicality? Visit your local Kia dealership today to explore the 2026 Sportage and discover why it might be the ideal compact SUV for your lifestyle. Don’t miss out on test driving a vehicle that truly understands what American drivers need and want.
