January 30th: Today’s Feature

January

Christopher Livingstone Eubank, (born 8 August 1966) a former British professional boxer, had an impressive career from 1985 to 1998. He held the World Boxing Organization (WBO) middleweight and super-middleweight titles for five years, making him one of the best British super-middleweight boxers of all time.

Eubank's undefeated streak in his first ten years as a professional and his popularity soared with his eccentric personality, especially during his intense fights against Nigel Benn and Michael Watson. Even in his final years, Eubank faced tough opponents like Joe Calzaghe and Carl Thompson, showcasing his bravery and resilience in the ring. His legacy continues with his son, Chris Eubank Jr., who is also a professional boxer.

Early life

Born on 8 August 1966 in Dulwich, South London, Chris Eubank spent his early years in Jamaica before returning to England. He lived in various areas of London, including Stoke Newington, Dalston, Hackney, and Peckham, where he faced the challenges of growing up in an impoverished environment.

Eubank attended several schools, including Northwold Primary School, Bellenden Junior School, and Thomas Calton Secondary School in Peckham. Despite his claims of defending other children from bullies, he was suspended 18 times in one year and eventually expelled. In 1981, he spent some time at Orchard Lodge Regional Resource Centre in Anerley.

At the age of 16, Eubank's father sent him to live with his mother in the tough South Bronx district of New York City. This move marked a significant change in his life and set the stage for his future endeavours.

Boxing career

Eubank embarked on a fresh start in New York, where he trained at the Jerome Boxing Club on Westchester Avenue, following the footsteps of his elder brothers in England. With a deep passion for boxing, he dedicated himself to daily gym sessions, even working as a caretaker to support himself. At the age of 18, he showcased his skills by reaching the semi-final stage of the prestigious Golden Gloves tournament at Madison Square Garden, after winning the 1984 Spanish Golden Gloves Tournament.

In his autobiography, Eubank reveals that his determination to succeed in boxing stemmed from his desire to establish his own identity, largely influenced by the bullying he experienced from his older brothers.

Shortly after turning 19, Eubank made his professional debut at the Atlantis Hotel and Casino, facing Tim Brown. Although his initial ten fights went relatively unnoticed, he gained attention in February 1989 when he defeated Anthony Logan, a formidable opponent who had come close to defeating rising star Nigel Benn. This victory fuelled Eubank's ambition, leading him to adopt Brighton in England as his hometown and set his sights on defeating Benn.

Following a series of impressive victories, including a dominant 10-round decision over American boxer Randy Smith, Eubank claimed the WBC International title in 1990 by defeating Hugo Corti. Later that year, he achieved a remarkable knockout victory over Renaldo Dos Santos in just 20 seconds, including the referee's 10-count.

Career beyond Boxing

Eubank's eccentricity became well-known throughout his successful years and beyond. In fact, he was voted the second most eccentric star, after Bjork, in a poll conducted by BBC Homes and Antiques magazine. With his distinctive way of speaking, dressing, and carrying himself, Eubank often drew criticism from tabloid newspapers. However, he also received recognition for his fashion sense, winning Britain's Best Dressed Man award in 1991 and 1993.

Eubank's collection of vehicles was equally impressive, including a customised Harley-Davidson and the largest lorry in Europe, an American Peterbilt 379 truck cab. He even owned the only Hummer in Britain at one point. Eubank's fame extended beyond his boxing career, as he was caricatured on Spitting Image and featured on the cover of Esquire magazine.

He also appeared in various television advertisements and modelled for renowned fashion designers. In addition to his eccentricities, Eubank demonstrated a philanthropic side by purchasing the lord of the manor rights in Brighton and using his own money to build flats for the homeless.

Continued in Part II