Eubank Jr: Why I love fighting in Manchester

The British boxer has been training hard in Las Vegas all summer and, as you may recall, he was in attendance for United’s pre-season friendly against Borussia Dortmund at the Allegiant Stadium. 

Now, his focus is on Saturday’s much-anticipated bout with Smith and avenging his dramatic defeat to the Liverpool boxer from earlier this year. It’s a huge occasion that fans can watch live on Sky Sports Box Office, as part of a big weekend of sport that also includes United’s trip to Arsenal. 

Eubank Jr was welcomed to Carrington by legendary receptionist Kath Phipps, who has worked at the club since 1968, and he was gifted the new adidas away shirt with the number seven. Our new green kit will be worn in competitive action for the first time this weekend. 

Chris was then given a tour of the Carrington gym, where he pointed out the differences between boxing and a team sport like football.

“I'd love to have a bunch of mates to run with and train with every day, but that is not the environment, or that is not what my experience has been,” he laughed. 

“My experience has been that you're in there on your own. Obviously, you have your coach and you have the guys who you spar, but once the bell goes it is not like when the whistle goes in football. If you get tired, you have got to keep going and that is definitely a big difference. 

“But teamwork is still extremely important because you have your coaches, your strength and conditioning, your mentors, and they help to bring you along and teach you. They are in the gym with you every day so I would say there is still a team element to things.”

Eubank Jr then met Michael Clegg, the club's strength and power coach, who introduces him to the facilities and, naturally, a boxing bag in the corner. 

So who has the best boxing ability in the team right now?

“I've done a lot of pad work with Luke Shaw over the years,” said Clegg. “He is quite hench and Mike Tyson-like. 

“We have got Scott McTominay, who has got a really good box, is quite a bit taller and a different weight. So there are a few boys who have got quite a bit about them!”

Of course, Eubank Jr has a unique connection to United and indeed Old Trafford after his father Chris Eubank Sr fought his legendary rival Nigel Benn at the Theatre of Dreams back in 1992. 

“I've got a big fight on my hands now, this is all or nothing for me, back in Manchester, AO Arena, Saturday night, everything is on the line.

“I love coming up here, I love fighting here, I love the atmosphere. Manchester is a fighting city, you guys take yours boxing and your sports so seriously. You are so passionate. The Arena is a great venue and I am very excited to come and perform.”

The new adidas away kit is available to order now via United Direct.