#conorbenn

TOM COCKRAM x CONOR BENN x WE GO AGAIN

For 6 weeks photographer/director Tom Cockram followed boxer Conor Benn throughout the training for his big rematch with Cedrick Peynaud. 

This film We Go Again is part of Tom's ongoing longer term project on British boxing, emcompassing both stills and motion.

Conor Benn has landed a surprise advantage going into his heavyweight rematch against Chris Eubank Jr at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium — he weighed in heavier than his rival despite moving up from welterweight. With a rehydration clause hanging over both men’s heads, and Eubank already fined in a past fight for missing weight, the pre-fight drama is thick. Want to replay all the tense moments? Fire up the QuickTV sports replay and catch every stare-down, scale tick, and media-side verbal barbs.

Weigh-in shock: Benn is heavier

At their official weigh-in, both fighters came in under the middleweight limit of 160 lbs, but it was Benn — the man who usually fights two divisions below — who shocked everybody by checking in at 159.3 lbs, just slightly heavier than Eubank’s 159.1 lbs. It’s a clear sign Benn is filling into the division more than expected, and it could reshape the dynamics in the ring. For a full breakdown, the QuickTV sports replay shows the facial expressions, tension and energy in the room as they stepped on the scales.

Rehydration clause raises the stakes

There’s more than just the number on the scale. Both men are operating under a 10-lb rehydration clause: they can only gain up to 10 pounds from their weigh-in to fight night. That means both Benn and Eubank will have to carefully ration what they put on before stepping into the ring. This limitation could be a game-changer — and watching how they manage it via the QuickTV sports replay could offer insight into strategy, advantage and possibly who has the upper hand at fight night.

History, tension and weight trouble

This isn’t the first time weight has been a dramatic factor in their rivalry. In their first encounter, Eubank Jr missed the 160-lb limit by a tiny margin, earning a hefty fine. His promoter has since slammed the rehydration clause as unfair and risky, especially considering the man’s previous struggles with dehydration. Now, with Benn heavier than expected, it’s fueling even more fire in their build-up. A rewind on the QuickTV sports replay reveals the tension, the taunts and the psychological chess being played.

What it could all mean in the ring

If Benn carries more natural mass to fight night (within the rehydration limits), he could be tougher to take down and more dangerous on the inside. Eubank, accustomed to a heavier frame, might try to make up deficits with skill, speed or experience — but his margin for error feels thinner. Given how close their first fight was, every pound, every strategy tweak, and every moment of mental warfare counts. Watching the QuickTV sports replay helps you catch subtle shifts — clenched jaws, cautious movement, maybe even signs of fear or resolve.

A heavyweight match underlined by weight battles

What’s happening at this weigh-in feels like more than just a number — it’s strategy, psychological warfare, and a preview of what’s to come when they lock horns again. Benn’s heavier scale number raises questions about his transformation, confidence, and power. And with that rehydration clause looming, the QuickTV sports replay is already a treasure trove for boxing fans who want to revisit every stare, strategy shift and weight-related tension ahead of what’s set to be another unforgettable showdown.

Lewis Crocker’s meteoric rise in the welterweight division has captured the attention of boxing fans across the UK and Ireland. The Belfast-born IBF champion, who secured his title with a split decision win over Paddy Donovan last September, is now considering what’s next in his career — and one name that’s already generating buzz is none other than boxing legend Manny Pacquiao.

According to Crocker’s manager, Jamie Conlan, a world title clash with the Hall of Famer “can definitely be looked at,” but for now, the focus remains on a mix of voluntary defences and high-profile domestic bouts. Sports Channel takes a closer look at the possibilities, the logistics, and what could be next for Crocker in 2025.

A Rapid Rise and a Strategic Outlook

Since claiming the IBF welterweight crown, Lewis Crocker has been navigating a busy and strategic path. He and Conlan have already met with Matchroom Boxing CEO Frank Smith to discuss potential opponents and the timing of upcoming fights.

While a February showdown with London’s Conor Benn is high on the list, another voluntary title defence in Belfast is also on the cards. These options are weighed carefully, considering both the competitive appeal and the financial realities of maintaining a career at the top of the sport.

“The Benn fight is the one Crocker wants,” Conlan told BBC Sport NI. “He is confident he will beat him. That’s all well and good and the numbers are exciting, but you can’t put Lewis’ livelihood on hold in hope of what happens in another fight.”

Pacquiao: A Dream Opponent?

Despite Benn being the immediate target, contact has already been made with Manny Pacquiao’s camp. Pacquiao, who returned to the ring in July after a four-year hiatus, fought WBC champion Mario Barrios to a majority draw. The 46-year-old former eight-division champion is reportedly planning a challenge for the WBA welterweight crown against Rolando Romero.

Conlan confirmed that discussions with Pacquiao’s manager Sean Gibbons are in the early stages. “They are trying to do ‘Rolly’ Romero first, but if that doesn’t happen, we are going to have communication,” Conlan said. “If something can be done, it can definitely be looked at. What a rise it would be to fight Manny Pacquiao.”

While it’s a tantalizing prospect, Crocker and his team remain pragmatic. A fight against Pacquiao would not only be a massive step up in profile, but also a monumental opportunity for Crocker to cement his legacy in the sport. Sports Channel highlights that taking on a boxing icon like Pacquiao would instantly place Crocker on the global stage, but timing and readiness are key.

The Benn Factor and Belfast First

For now, Crocker’s immediate future is likely to involve domestic opposition. A first voluntary defence in Belfast allows him to maintain activity while avoiding unnecessary delays in his career progression. The outcome of the highly anticipated Eubank Jr vs Conor Benn II middleweight rematch in November could influence the timing of a Crocker vs Benn showdown.

Conlan explained that logistics and timing are crucial. “You are putting Lewis’ career on hold if you’re waiting on another fight,” he said. “So we get something booked for Belfast first, and then most likely Benn comes next. If Matchroom controls the situation with the mandatory, we can adjust, but for now, a Belfast card makes the most sense.”

IBF Rankings and Mandatory Implications

The IBF rankings also play a role in Crocker’s planning. Former light-welterweight champion Liam Paro currently sits at number two, with Donovan appealing his September loss and holding third place. A successful appeal for Donovan could maintain his ranking and lead to a final eliminator against Paro for the mandatory challenger slot.

Conlan suggests that if these mandatory complications are delayed, Crocker could enjoy two voluntary defences before a mandatory fight is required. This approach balances career momentum, financial security, and the chance to build Crocker’s profile ahead of bigger international bouts, including a potential Pacquiao fight.

Building Momentum and Maintaining Focus

One thing is clear: Crocker and his team are focused on maintaining momentum. The next fights are about staying active, increasing visibility, and solidifying his championship reign. For fans, this careful planning is just as thrilling as a high-stakes showdown. Sports Channel points out that boxing careers are as much about timing and strategy as they are about physical skill, and Crocker’s team is acutely aware of that balance.

Whether it’s defending the IBF belt in Belfast, taking on Benn in London, or keeping the door open for a historic clash with Manny Pacquiao, Crocker is poised to make 2025 a pivotal year. Every move is calculated to maximize his opportunities while maintaining his standing as one of the most promising welterweights in the division.

Looking Ahead: Legacy and Opportunity

For Crocker, every fight is more than just a bout — it’s an opportunity to define his career. The possibility of facing Manny Pacquiao is tantalizing, but even if that doesn’t materialize, Crocker’s path is full of meaningful challenges and opportunities. Sports Channel emphasizes that this blend of ambition and careful planning will determine whether Crocker’s reign as IBF welterweight champion is just beginning or destined for legendary status.

Fans will be watching closely as Belfast’s rising star navigates these decisions, balancing high-profile ambitions with pragmatic career management. With voluntary defences, potential domestic showdowns, and the tantalizing possibility of a global icon in Pacquiao, the coming months promise to be some of the most exciting in Crocker’s young career.

Harlem Eubank has declared his own interest in boxing Conor Benn, after the latter’s clash with his cousin Chris Eubank Jr on April 26, live on Sky Sports Box Office. The unbeaten 31-year-old hopes that a Conor Benn defeat to Eubank Jr at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London could result in a fight for Learn More